Is drone a photogrammetry?

Drones, also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), are commonly used in photogrammetry. The use of drones for capturing images from the air has become a popular and practical approach in the field. Drone-based photogrammetry involves using cameras mounted on drones to capture aerial imagery, which is then processed to create 3D models, maps, or other spatial representations. Here's how drones are related to photogrammetry:

1. Aerial Photogrammetry:

   • Drones are often used for aerial photogrammetry, capturing images from an elevated position. The images taken by the drone's camera(s) are processed using photogrammetry software to reconstruct the 3D geometry of the terrain or objects in the images.
   • Drones can provide a cost-effective and flexible solution for aerial data acquisition, particularly in scenarios where traditional aerial surveys might be challenging or expensive.

2. Applications:

   • Drone-based photogrammetry finds applications in various industries, including agriculture, construction, environmental monitoring, surveying, and more.
   • Drones are used for mapping large areas, monitoring construction sites, assessing crop health, and creating detailed 3D models of structures or landscapes.

3. Advantages:

   • Drones offer several advantages for photogrammetry, such as the ability to access difficult-to-reach areas, cost-effectiveness compared to traditional aerial surveys, and the flexibility to capture data on-demand.
   • The high maneuverability of drones allows for precise control over image capture, ensuring optimal coverage and overlap.

4. Integration with Photogrammetry Software:

   • The images captured by drones are processed using photogrammetry software, which uses algorithms to extract 3D information from the 2D images.
   • This process involves identifying common features in the images, matching corresponding points, and calculating the 3D coordinates of those points to generate a 3D model.

In summary, while drones themselves are not photogrammetry, they are a valuable tool for capturing aerial imagery that can be used in photogrammetric processes. The integration of drones with photogrammetry allows for efficient and accurate data acquisition, making it a popular choice in various industries for mapping and 3D modeling applications.