Best Practices for Marking Ground Control Points
Today’s question is about ground control points. While processing data, how can you ensure that your GCP markers do not get pixelated on zooming in?
Our caller, Chris has come up with a great question today about drone mapping and GCPs. Specifically, he is finding it difficult to precisely mark Ground Control Points as the markers are prone to pixelation on zooming in. Now, Chris is using a high-end X4S camera that is known to capture sharp images. What steps can Chris take to overcome this issue and properly mark GCP’s so that mapping accuracy is not compromised?
To help Chris out, we reveal the three most likely factors that could be causing this pixelation issue – camera sensor, altitude, and focal length. Further, we also reveal the importance of using big and easily discernible GCP’s. So, what exactly is the ideal size of a GCP marker? And is there any particular reason why our landing pads (which can also be used as markers) are orange and blue? You will also learn some common mistakes that surveyors make when marking Ground Control Points. If you are a professional drone mapper looking for some nuanced drone mapping information, you will find this show particularly useful. Thanks for the great question, Chris! Fly Safe!
Do you wish to learn from world-class pilots with real-world experience? This could be your chance. The Drone U Fly-in Challenge will be held from April 4-5 in Santa Fe, New Mexico. These unique drone games are designed to test your flying ability as you will be asked to complete carefully designed flight missions that mimic real-world scenarios. Don’t miss the chance to participate in the BIGGEST and BEST drone event of the year. Limited Spots Available! Book Now!
Recently crashed your drone? Unable to find trained technicians who can repair your drone quickly and at a reasonable rate? Don’t fret. The cool folks at Fortress UAV can help you get your drone back up in the air in as little as 7 days! Use Promo Code “DroneU” to get 25% off. Drone U Members get an extra 5% off on total repair costs. Check them out now!
Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!
Get your questions answered:https://thedroneu.com/.
If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks!https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.
Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community.
Looking for simple, fast, and transparent coverage that gives you peace of mind? Our friends at Skywatch are offering affordable on-demand drone insurance that rewards YOU for flying safely. Check them out NOW! Both hourly and monthly options available.
Follow Us
Site – https://thedroneu.com/
Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/droneu
Instagram –https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
Twitter –https://twitter.com/thedroneu
YouTube –https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu
Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” –http://amzn.to/2nalUDH
Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide –https://amzn.to/2omQatT/
Check out our upcoming Mapping Classes –https://thedroneu.clickfunnels.com/drone-u-mapping-classes-2019
Timestamps
- [02:06] How geo-referencing helps generate more accurate drone maps and models
- [03:50] How can you determine the quality of GPS points that you have marked?
- [05:19] Should you, as a professional drone mapper permit the construction contractor to pull GPS points?
- [06:24] How can attending the 2020 Drone U Fly-in help you? Paul shares some interesting details
- [08:00] How is the 2020 Drone U Fly-in bigger and better? Fly-in Challenge
- [12:14] Today’s question is about Ground Control Point (GCP) markers pixelating as you zoom in
- [14:10] What is the ideal size of a GCP marker?
- [14:46] Understand Ground Sampling Distance
- [16:02] Will flying at a lower altitude help Chris out?
- [16:32] How can using a Drone U landing pad help you generate more accurate drone maps and models?
- [17:43] Is the color of a GCP marker important?
- [19:13] What are some common mistakes that surveyors make while marking Ground Control Points (GCP’s)?
- [22:28] Why using Ground Control Points from stiff material like steel or wood is NOT a good idea
- [23:48] Is it more difficult to mark GCP’s in some drone mapping software?
- [26:03] Why is Chris seeing pixelated GCP markers?
- [29:02] How can you fly at a high altitude and still maintain a low GSD?
