Are base stations an absolute necessary? Can pilots use their drones to reference ground points for mapping missions?

In today's episode we discuss the use of base stations and if pilots can make do without one as they work on mapping deliverables. Are there any benefits to doing so?

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Today's question is from Scott, who would like to know if its possible for pilots to use their drone feed for referencing points from the ground for mapping deliverables and if a base station is not required.

Thanks for the question Scott. Today's episode is a short one where we address the use and advantages of using formal gear for GCP as against referencing the ground from video feed/footage. We discuss some common errors that can occur from the use of drone feed for generating reference points and speak about the difference in absolute and relative accuracy. We also discuss alternatives that pilots can use in the absence of base stations and state the trade-offs from the use of these alternatives.

Tune in today to learn more about improving your accuracy in mapping deliverables.

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Timestamps:

[2:17] Today's question on mapping and if there are advantages to using the GCP from a drone

[4:45] Paul elaborates on areas where the measurements can be erroneous during mapping

[7:00] An example to demonstrate the difference in absolute and relative accuracy

[8:44] Can missions be completed without a base station? Are they an absolute necessity in mapping? What other alternatives would work?