Stereoplot Analysis

A stereoplot, also called a stereonet, is a graphical method of representing the 3D orientation of planar and linear features in 2D space. On a stereoplot, a line in 3D space is represented by a point within a 2D area called the "area of projection" (Priest, 1985). Lines in 3D space can be either the normal vectors to discontinuity surfaces or vectors representing the orientation (dip and dip direction) of discontinuity surfaces.

Stereographic projections are primarily used to identify dominant discontinuity orientations within a discontinuous (jointed) rock mass.

In geological and geomechanical studies, stereographic projections are widely used for analysing planar discontinuities, such as fractures, faults, fissures, joints and bedding planes occurring at various orientations within rock masses. See Stereo Plot Tab.