Journal de géologie et géophysique
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Abstrait

Surveying and Geographic Information Systems (GIS): Exploring the Capabilities of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV)/Drones

Ezra Chipatiso*

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) have emerged as a solution to day to day survey tasks, allowing users to visualize phenomena in real-time. This paper explores the capabilities of UAV or drones in the collection of accurate, geo- tagged data quickly, including photogrammetry software processes to deliver standardized data output. In order to explore the capabilities of UAV, Gatu Township in Centenary, Muzabani District of Zimbabwe was chosen from the national mapping topographic series. This study demonstrates the efficiency of data collection using drones, generate 2D orthomosaics in real time, so that analysts can easily visualize land cover and identify any changes, map and model large areas to produce data for 2D and 3D models. The recent development of innovative optical image processing has further lowered the costs high resolution topographic surveys.