It's essentially a more accurate way of doing three point problems to calculate strike and dip. This method uses linear algebra to calculate the best fit plane to many XYZ points. See this write up by Phillip McFarland for more details.
Some possible uses are geologic mapping with satellite images, seismic fault interpretation, and water table determination. Use your head and think of other applications. I'm not your mom.
This calculator assumes the surface can be approximated by a linear plane. If it cannot, break up the segments of the surface that you believe are linear planes and insert them separately.
This calculator only works with projected coordinates and where all three dimensions are in the same units.
Thanks to Phillip McFarland for his mathematical explanations. Special thanks to Matthew Lenz for all his programming support and putting up with my stupidity.
This program was created in response to:
1. Being annoyed that this didn't already exist
2. Wanting to learn to program. This is my first program. Cut me some slack.