What Is an HGT File?
A file with the HGT file extension is a Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) Data file. These files contain digital elevation models, which are 3D pictures of a surface, usually a planet, obtained during the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) by NASA and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA). Used here, “HGT” is just an abbreviation for “height.” The file is normally named with the longitude and latitude that the image pertains to, within one degree. For example, the file N33W177.hgt would indicate that it includes data for latitudes 33 to 34 North and longitudes 177 to 178 West.
How to Open an HGT File
HGT files can be opened with VTBuilder, ArcGIS Pro, and Safe Software’s FME Desktop. DG Terrain Viewer works, too, for both Windows and Linux. You can also import it into Blender with the blender-osm addon.
How to Convert an HGT File
VTBuilder can export an HGT file to a Binary Terrain (.BT) file. To do this, first import it via Layer > Import Data > Elevation and then save it using the Layer > Save Layer As option. VTBuilder also supports exporting to PNG, TIFF, and a number of other common, and not so common, image and data formats. In ArcGIS Pro, with the file already open in the program, you should be able to go to Export > Raster to Different Format to save it under a new format. The other programs above can probably convert this file, too. This is normally done through an Export option or a Save As menu.
Still Can’t Open It?
If you have an HGT file that you know isn’t an SRTM Data file, or it doesn’t work with any of the software you read about above, it could be that your specific file is actually in an entirely different format. If so, use a text editor to open it. Sometimes, there’s identifiable text within the file that can help you understand what program was used to build it, which should direct you to more information on the format. If not, maybe you’re misreading the file extension, confusing an SRT file for an HGT file. HTG is another example that appears related, but is actually used by HackTheGame for mission pack files.
