Free DEM Data Download & Elevation Models
TanDEM-X WorldDEM
Quick answer: Use TanDEM-X WorldDEM for the highest-accuracy 12m global commercial DEM from SAR interferometry, ideal for precision engineering and military-grade terrain analysis.
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Format
GeoTIFF
Geometry
Raster DEM
Coverage
Global land
Resolution
12 meters (0.4 arc-second)
About this dataset
Airbus/DLR TanDEM-X WorldDEM at 12-meter resolution from bistatic SAR interferometry, providing the most accurate global commercial DEM available.
TanDEM-X WorldDEM is a 12-meter global DEM produced by DLR and distributed by Airbus using bistatic SAR interferometry from the TerraSAR-X and TanDEM-X satellite pair. It offers superior vertical accuracy (≈2.4 m relative) and near-complete global coverage including dense forests and deserts where optical DEMs struggle. The Copernicus DEM is derived from TanDEM-X data but at 30m resolution; WorldDEM offers the full 12m commercial product.
How to download
- 1 Contact Airbus or an authorized reseller to obtain a commercial WorldDEM license for your area of interest.
- 2 Define your AOI (area of interest), resolution preference (12m or downsampled), and delivery format (GeoTIFF).
- 3 Complete the purchase and receive download credentials from Airbus.
- 4 Download the WorldDEM tiles and integrate them into your precision GIS or engineering workflow.
FAQ
How is TanDEM-X WorldDEM related to Copernicus DEM?
Copernicus DEM 30m (GLO-30) is derived from the TanDEM-X WorldDEM dataset but resampled to 30m and with additional editing. WorldDEM at 12m is the full-resolution commercial product with higher vertical accuracy.
Is TanDEM-X WorldDEM free?
No. WorldDEM is a commercial product sold by Airbus. Scientific users may apply to DLR for access to the TanDEM-X science archive through a proposal process. For a free alternative derived from the same source, use Copernicus DEM GLO-30.