Course Details

Introduction to Drone Mapping and Photogrammetry Training Course

INTRODUCTION

Step into the exciting world of modern geospatial data collection with our "Introduction to Drone Mapping and Photogrammetry" training course. This foundational program is expertly crafted for beginners and professionals alike who are eager to understand how Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are revolutionizing surveying, mapping, and data acquisition across numerous industries. From transforming raw aerial images into precise 2D maps and 3D models to generating valuable insights for various applications, this course provides a comprehensive overview of the essential concepts and practical skills needed to kickstart your journey in drone-based photogrammetry.

This hands-on training demystifies the technical aspects of drone operations and photogrammetry software, guiding you through the entire workflow from flight planning to final data product creation. You'll gain practical experience in operating entry-level mapping drones, understanding key photogrammetric principles, and utilizing user-friendly software to produce accurate and actionable geospatial deliverables. Whether you're looking to enhance your professional capabilities, explore new career opportunities, or simply curious about this cutting-edge technology, this course offers the perfect entry point to harness the power of drone mapping.

DURATION

10 days

TARGET AUDIENCE

The "Introduction to Drone Mapping and Photogrammetry" training course is designed for individuals with little to no prior experience in drone operations or photogrammetry, but a keen interest in learning. This course is ideal for:

• Beginners and Enthusiasts: Anyone curious about drones, mapping, and how to combine them.
• Aspiring Drone Pilots: Those looking to start a career in commercial drone operations, specifically in mapping.
• Students: In geography, environmental science, urban planning, civil engineering, or related fields wanting practical skills.
• Small Business Owners: In real estate, construction, agriculture, or property management seeking to incorporate drone capabilities.
• Surveying Assistants and Technicians: Looking to understand and assist with modern data collection methods.
• GIS Professionals: Who want to add drone data acquisition to their skill set.
• Farmers and Agriculturalists: Interested in basic crop mapping and land monitoring.
• Environmental Monitors: For simple site inspections and change detection.
• Educators: Wishing to integrate drone technology into their curriculum.
• Anyone looking for a practical entry point into the drone mapping industry.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Upon successful completion of the "Introduction to Drone Mapping and Photogrammetry" training course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the fundamental components of drones and their basic operational principles.
• Grasp the core concepts of photogrammetry for creating maps and 3D models from drone imagery.
• Identify appropriate drone types and basic sensors for entry-level mapping tasks.
• Plan and execute basic, safe, and legal drone flights for photogrammetric data acquisition.
• Process drone-acquired images using introductory photogrammetry software to generate basic geospatial products.
• Create and interpret orthomosaic maps, digital surface models (DSMs), and simple 3D models.
• Understand the importance of Ground Control Points (GCPs) for improving mapping accuracy.
• Recognize common challenges in drone mapping and basic troubleshooting techniques.
• Discuss various real-world applications of drone mapping across different industries.
• Be prepared for further, more advanced training in specific drone mapping applications.

COURSE MODULES

Module 1: What are Drones & Why Map with Them?

• Define Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and their basic classifications.
• Explore the evolution of drones and their impact on various industries.
• Understand the fundamental components of a drone (airframe, motors, propellers, battery, flight controller, camera).
• Discuss the key advantages of using drones for mapping over traditional methods (cost-effectiveness, speed, safety, accessibility).
• Overview of common applications: site mapping, construction progress, agriculture, real estate, environmental monitoring.

Module 2: Basic Drone Operation & Safety

• Introduction to basic drone controls and flight modes.
• Understanding pre-flight checks and post-flight procedures.
• Basic safety guidelines for drone operation, including prop safety and battery care.
• Introduction to Kenyan drone regulations (KCAA) for basic operations (e.g., VLOS, sub-25kg, no-fly zones).
• Practical tips for responsible and safe drone piloting.

Module 3: Introduction to Photogrammetry

• Define photogrammetry as the science of making measurements from photographs.
• Understand the basic principles: image overlap, sidelap, and Ground Sample Distance (GSD).
• Explore how multiple overlapping images are used to create 2D maps and 3D models.
• Brief overview of different camera types and their role in photogrammetry.
• The concept of perspective and how it applies to aerial imagery.

Module 4: Essential Equipment for Drone Mapping

• Guide to selecting an appropriate entry-level mapping drone (e.g., DJI Mini 4 Pro, Autel EVO Lite+).
• Understanding basic camera settings for photogrammetry (ISO, aperture, shutter speed).
• Introduction to essential accessories: extra batteries, memory cards, chargers, carrying case.
• Brief discussion on the role of a tablet/smartphone for flight planning and control.
• Considerations for investing in your first drone mapping setup.

Module 5: Basic Flight Planning for Mapping

• Introduction to user-friendly flight planning apps (e.g., DJI Fly, Autel Sky, basic dedicated mapping apps).
• Setting up simple grid missions for aerial photography.
• Defining flight altitude, speed, and desired image overlap percentage.
• Understanding the impact of flight parameters on GSD and data quality.
• Practice planning a simple mapping mission for a small area.

Module 6: Drone Data Acquisition: Field Procedures

• Hands-on experience with drone setup, calibration, and pre-flight checks.
• Executing simple, pre-planned autonomous mapping flights.
• Monitoring flight progress and ensuring successful data capture.
• Basic troubleshooting of common flight issues (e.g., signal loss, battery warnings).
• Safe landing procedures and post-flight data retrieval.

Module 7: Introduction to Photogrammetry Software (Cloud-Based/Basic Desktop)

• Overview of user-friendly photogrammetry software options (e.g., DroneDeploy, Pix4Dcloud, Metashape trial/basic).
• Importing drone images and setting up a new project.
• Understanding the basic processing steps: image alignment, dense cloud generation, mesh creation.
• Introduction to the user interface and basic tools within the software.
• Running a first basic processing job and understanding its outputs.

Module 8: Basic Geospatial Deliverables

• Understanding and interpreting orthomosaic maps (georeferenced images).
• Introduction to Digital Surface Models (DSMs) and their representation of elevation.
• Generating simple 3D point clouds and basic 3D models.
• Brief discussion on contour lines and their derivation from elevation data.
• Exporting basic deliverables in common image formats (e.g., JPG, TIFF) for viewing.

Module 9: Improving Accuracy & Quality (Introduction to GCPs)

• The concept of absolute accuracy vs. relative accuracy in mapping.
• Introduction to Ground Control Points (GCPs) and their importance for georeferencing and accuracy.
• Basic understanding of how GCPs are measured (e.g., using GPS receivers, survey points).
• How to incorporate GCPs into the photogrammetry processing workflow (conceptual).
• Tips for capturing consistent and clear imagery to improve processing results.

Module 10: Applications & Next Steps

• Practical examples of how basic drone maps are used in real estate, construction, environmental monitoring, and more.
• Discussion on the limitations of introductory drone mapping and when advanced techniques are needed.
• Pathways for further learning: advanced photogrammetry, LiDAR, GIS integration, specific industry applications.
• Career opportunities in the drone mapping and geospatial industries.
• Resources for ongoing learning and staying updated with drone technology trends.

CERTIFICATION

• Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with Macskills Training and Development Institute Certificate

TRAINING VENUE

• Training will be held at Macskills Training Centre. We also tailor make the training upon request at different locations across the world.

AIRPORT PICK UP AND ACCOMMODATION

• Airport pick up and accommodation is arranged upon request

TERMS OF PAYMENT

Payment should be made to Macskills Development Institute bank account before the start of the training and receipts sent to info@macskillsdevelopment.com