Top Software to Create Maps from Aerial Photogrammetry

Aerial photogrammetry data obtained from aerial mapping undergoes data processing to finally interpret the data to emerge 3D models and plans. The data processing is performed using specialized software that possesses the feature to take different aerial mapping data and provide maps and models as the output. 

This article explores some of the major software that is used to create maps from aerial photogrammetry data. 

1. Agisoft Metashape

This software can be used to process aerial photographs and create 3D models, orthomosaics, and digital surface models. It also includes tools for quality control and accuracy assessment. 

2. Pix4D

This software can be used to create accurate maps and models from aerial imagery, including 3D point clouds, orthomosaics, and digital surface models. It also includes advanced features such as volume and area measurements and can be used for various applications, including agriculture, construction, and surveying.

3. Esri ArcGIS

This software is widely used in GIS (Geographic Information System) applications and can be used to create maps from aerial photogrammetry data. It includes tools for data analysis, visualization, and geospatial data management. 

3. QGIS

This is an open-source GIS software that can be used for various mapping and analysis tasks, including aerial photogrammetry. It includes features for data management, analysis, and visualization. 

4. Global Mapper

This software can be used to create 3D terrain models, orthomosaics, and contour maps from aerial imagery. It includes advanced features for processing LiDAR data and can be used for various applications, including surveying, construction, and environmental monitoring. 

5. DroneDeploy

This software is popular for its cloud-based processing and visualization capabilities. It offers various features like 2D and 3D mapping, NDVI mapping, and volumetric analysis. It is also known for its ease of use, making it a popular choice for non-experts.

6. RealityCapture

This software is known for its fast processing speed and ability to handle large datasets. It offers various features like automatic image alignment, depth map generation, mesh creation, and texture mapping. It is popular in fields like architecture, surveying, and cultural heritage preservation.

7. OpenDroneMap

This open-source software is designed for processing drone imagery to create accurate maps, point clouds, and 3D models. It offers various features like image alignment, point cloud and mesh generation, and texture mapping. It is a popular choice for those looking for a free and open-source option.

Features of Software Used for Creating Maps for Aerial Photogrammetry Data

The features of the software used for creating maps from aerial photogrammetry data. Here are some common features you might find in such software:

1. Image stitching: This feature enables the user to combine multiple images taken from different angles and heights to create a single, high-resolution image.
2. Orthomosaic generation: An orthomosaic is a 2D map that is generated by stitching together aerial images and correcting for distortions caused by perspective and terrain. This feature enables the software to create high-quality orthomosaics.
3. Point cloud generation: Point clouds are 3D models of the terrain created by using photogrammetry algorithms. This feature enables the software to create point clouds from aerial images.
4. Digital elevation models (DEMs): A DEM is a 3D representation of the surface of the earth. This feature allows the software to create a DEM from the point cloud data.
5. 3D modeling: Some software can create 3D models of the terrain from the point cloud data, which can be used for visualization and analysis purposes.
6. Georeferencing: This feature allows the software to align the map with real-world coordinates, which is important for accurate measurements and analysis.
7. Annotation and measurement tools: These tools allow the user to add annotations and perform measurements on the map, such as distance and area calculations.
8. Data Export options: Software should allow the user to export the map data in various formats, such as GeoTIFF, KML, and SHP so that it can be used in other GIS applications.

The choice of software will depend on the specific needs of the project, the type of data being collected, and the desired outputs. Each software has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the choice of software ultimately depends on the specific requirements of the project.

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