Leon, Javier X; Cohen, T J (2012): Improved digital elevation model (DEM) for Lake Eyre, Australia [dataset]. PANGAEA, https://doi.org/10.1594/PANGAEA.783838,

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Supplement to: Leon, JX; Cohen, TJ (2012): An improved bathymetric model for the modern and palaeo Lake Eyre. Geomorphology, 173-174, 69-79, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.geomorph.2012.05.029

Here we demonstrate the applicability of using altimetry data and Landsat imagery to provide the most accurate digital elevation model (DEM) of Australia's largest playa lake – Lake Eyre. We demonstrate through the use of geospatial techniques a robust assessment of lake area and volume of recent lake-filling episodes whilst also providing the most accurate estimates of area and volume for larger lake filling episodes that occurred throughout the last glacial cycle. We highlight that at a depth of 25 m Lake Mega-Eyre would merge with the adjacent Lake Mega-Frome to form an immense waterbody with a combined area of almost 35,000 km**2 and a combined volume of ~520 km**3. This would represent a vast water body in what is now the arid interior of the Australian continent. The improved DEM is more reliable from a geomorphological and hydrological perspective and allows a more accurate assessment of water balance under the modern hydrological regime. The results presented using GLAS/ICESat data suggest that earlier historical soundings were correct and the actual lowest topographic point in Australia is -15.6 m below sea level. The results also contrast nicely the different basin characteristics of two adjacent lake systems; Lake Eyre and Lake Frome.