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!

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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?