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Ground Sampling Distance

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22 views

Ground Sampling Distance

Uploaded by

damienraczy
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Ground Sampling Distance (GSD)

Definition: Ground Sampling Distance (GSD) is the distance between two consecutive pixel centers
on the ground in a drone image. It determines the spatial resolution of your images and is typically
measured in centimeters (cm) per pixel.
For example, a GSD of 2 cm/pixel means that each pixel in the image represents a 2 cm × 2 cm
square on the ground.

Importance of GSD in Drone Mapping

1. Accuracy: A smaller GSD (higher resolution) leads to better spatial detail and
mapping accuracy.
2. Precision in Measurements: Lower GSD ensures finer details in orthomosaic images
and 3D models, crucial for tasks like volume estimation or cadastral surveys.
3. Project Objectives: GSD requirements depend on the specific project:
o High detail required: Construction, cadastral surveys, inspection tasks (e.g.,
1–2 cm/pixel).
o General mapping: Large agricultural or forestry areas may tolerate higher
GSD (e.g., 5–10 cm/pixel).

How to Calculate GSD


The GSD depends on the following factors:
 Sensor resolution (pixel size): Typically measured in micrometers (µm).
 Flight altitude (H): The height of the drone above the ground in meters.
 Focal length (f): The camera’s focal length in millimeters (mm).

GSD Formula:

GSD=Sensor Pixel ¿ mm ¿× Flight Altitude(m) ¿


Focal Length (mm)

Practical Example
 Sensor Pixel Size: 2.4 µm = 0.0024 mm.
 Flight Altitude: 120 m.
 Focal Length: 20 mm.

0.0024 ×12020
GSD= =0.0144 m=1.44 cm/ pixel
20
Choosing the Right GSD for Your Project

1. Project Type and Requirements


Use Case Recommended GSD
Construction/Infrastructure 1–2 cm/pixel
Cadastral Mapping 1–3 cm/pixel
Agriculture 5–10 cm/pixel
Large Area Mapping 10–20 cm/pixel

2. Accuracy Goals
The GSD affects both relative accuracy and global accuracy:
 Relative Accuracy: Achieved when GSD allows features to be represented consistently
across images.
 Global Accuracy: Higher GSD may limit the georeferencing precision, requiring more GCPs to
maintain accuracy.

3. Terrain and Features


 Flat Terrain: Larger GSDs (lower resolution) may suffice.
 Complex Terrain: Requires smaller GSDs to capture finer details.

GSD and Flight Planning


The GSD influences:
 Overlap Requirements:
o Smaller GSDs require higher overlap (e.g., 80% front, 60% side) for accurate
reconstruction.
 Flight Altitude:
o Higher altitudes increase GSD (reduce resolution). Keep the altitude low for high-
resolution projects.
 Image Storage:
o Higher resolution images (smaller GSD) require more storage and processing power.

How GSD, Accuracy, and GCPs Interact


 Lower GSD = Fewer GCPs:
o High-resolution images (small GSD) reduce the need for GCPs because the software can
detect finer details for better reconstruction.
 Higher GSD = More GCPs:
o Low-resolution images may introduce errors, so more GCPs are needed to correct the
model.

Practical Advice
 Define the accuracy requirements before deciding the GSD.
 Calculate the required flight altitude to achieve the desired GSD using the camera’s
specifications.
 Balance resolution and cost: Higher resolution increases processing time and storage
requirements.
 Use GSD to determine whether your sensor and flight plan can meet project demands.
Let me know if you need help calculating GSD for your specific drone or project!

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