What is Aerial photogrammetry?

Aerial photogrammetry is a technique for creating two dimensional (2D) or three dimensional (3D) models from aerial photographs, which are pictures of the Earth from a high point, usually an airplane. These photographs are then turned into the models by cartographers. Aerial photogrammetry usually requires photographs of two or more angles of the same area in order to map the image, and it may or may not involve computer software.

For the most part, aerial photogrammetry is used to create topographical maps. These maps may be either 2D or, more recently, 3D computer models of terrain. The resulting maps and models may be useful in analyzing both small and large geographical areas. These maps may be used as a basis for, or in conjunction with, Geographic Information System (GIS) data.

How is it useful in Surveying?

Aerial photogrammetry may also be useful in a variety of industries. It is commonly used in architecture and land development. In addition, these mapping techniques may be used in environmental studies of a terrain, such as watershed or deforestation research, in city planning, or even in film production.

Most of the images used in aerial photogrammetry are obtained through cameras mounted to the undersides of airplanes. If the image needs to be taken from a low flight path, the camera is typically mounted to a small, remote-controlled airplane. Flight restrictions in many areas prohibit manned airplanes from flying too low over residential and business areas.

The flight pattern of the plane will typically meander back and forth over an area as the camera records the images. This pattern is meant to allow each area to be photographed from multiple angles. The aerial photogrammetry process almost always requires photographic data from multiple angles.