UAS Aerial Imaging & Mapping

 Unmanned Aircraft Systems, commonly known as drones, provide an efficient way to collect detailed aerial imagery and site information from a unique perspective. UAS technology can document large or difficult-to-access areas quickly while providing valuable visual and measurement data for surveying, engineering, construction and property-development projects.

When combined with appropriate ground control and conventional surveying methods, UAS data can be transformed into accurate aerial maps, three-dimensional models, topographic surfaces and other digital products. These deliverables give owners, engineers, contractors and project teams a clearer understanding of existing site conditions and construction progress.

1. High-Resolution Aerial Photography — Detailed overhead and oblique photographs used for project planning, documentation, presentations and marketing.
2. Aerial Video — Professional video showing the property, surrounding area, site access and completed or ongoing improvements.
3. Orthomosaic Mapping — Multiple aerial photographs combined into a corrected and measurable overhead image of the project area.
4. Topographic Mapping — Collection of terrain information used to develop contours, elevations, breaklines and existing-condition mapping.
5. Three-Dimensional Site Models — Creation of digital terrain, surface and site models that allow projects to be viewed and evaluated from multiple perspectives.
6. Point-Cloud Data — Dense three-dimensional data used to represent terrain, structures and other visible site features.
7. Construction Progress Documentation — Periodic aerial photography and mapping used to document site development and construction activity over time.
8. Earthwork and Stockpile Quantities — Surface measurements used to calculate excavation, embankment, stockpile and material volumes.
9. Site Planning and Design Support — Aerial information prepared for use by engineers, architects, planners and contractors during project design and coordination.
10. GIS Data Collection — Collection and integration of aerial imagery and location-based information for geographic information systems and asset-management applications.
11. Existing-Condition Documentation — A visual record of buildings, pavement, utilities, drainage features, vegetation and other observable site conditions.
12. CAD and Digital Deliverables — Preparation of aerial imagery, point clouds, contours, surfaces and linework for use in CAD, GIS and engineering-design software.
13. Project Presentation Imagery — Professional aerial photographs and videos that help communicate project conditions, progress and completed improvements to clients and stakeholders.

UAS technology can collect a large amount of site information efficiently while reducing the time personnel must spend in difficult, congested or hazardous areas. It also provides a comprehensive overhead perspective that cannot always be achieved through conventional ground-level photography or surveying alone.

The appropriate equipment and collection method depend on the project’s required accuracy, site conditions, vegetation, airspace, weather and intended use of the final data. UAS operations are performed in accordance with applicable FAA requirements and should be coordinated early in the project.

UAS data complements conventional surveying but does not automatically replace necessary boundary research, ground measurements, utility investigation or other specialized services. ESC evaluates each project individually to recommend the right combination of aerial and ground-based data collection.