The aim of the conference is to present and discuss new methods, issues and challenges encountered in all parts of the complex process of gradual development and application of digital surface models. This process covers data capture, data generation, storage, model creation, validation, manipulation, utilization and visualization. Each stage requires suitable methods and involves issues that may substantially decrease the value of the model.

Furthermore, the conference provides a platform to discuss the requirements, features and research approaches for 3D modeling, continuous field modeling and other geoscience applications.

The conference covers the following topics:
- LIDAR for elevation data
- Radar interferometry for elevation data
- Surface model creation
- Surface model statistics
- Surface model storage (including data formats, standardization, database)
- Feature extraction
- Analysis of surface models
- Surface models for hydrology, meteorology, climatology
- Surface models for signal spreading
- Surface models for geology (structural, mining)
- Surface models for environmental science
- Surface models for visibility studies
- Surface models for urban geography
- Surface models for human geography
- Uncertainty of surface models and digital terrain analysis
- Surface model visual enhancement and rendering