Aerial photography and laser scanning

How is aerial surveying carried out?

Every year, the Estonian Land and Sea Board flies over most of Estonia and aerial photography, which forms the basis for orthophotos, is carried out every year over half of Estonia – alternately over the northern and southern parts of Estonia, with the larger settlements on the opposite side being flown over in the same year. Aerial photographs, coastal aerial photographs, and aerial laser scanning data are processed into orthophotos and 3D network and elevation models, which are valuable material for environmental monitoring, spatial analysis, map making, etc.

What is photogrammetry?

Photogrammetry is a measurement method that uses satellite photos, aerial photos, and other photos taken from or near the ground to determine the position, dimensions, and shape of objects.

What will be used for flying?

• From 2025, the IGI UrbanMapper-2p aerial camera will be used for aerial photography, enabling both nationwide high-altitude flights and 3D mesh models of cities.
• From 2025, the Riegl VQ-1460 laser scanner will be used to collect elevation data.
• From 2025, a photo robot using PhaseOne iXM-GS120 cameras will be used for fotoladu.maaamet.ee.
• The equipment is used simultaneously and installed on small aircraft Cessna Grand Caravan 208B.
• Various professional software solutions and AI tools are used to process aerial photographs and laser scanning data.

Activities of the Land and Space Agency in the field of aerial surveying

• organizes aerial photography and aerial laser scanning;
• performs post-processing of aerial photography and elevation data;
• compiles and updates orthophoto maps and elevation models;
• archives digital aerial photography material, orthophotos, and elevation data;
• develops the field of aerial surveying and develops the necessary specifications and technical guidelines;
• makes proposals for the development and amendment of legislation relating to the field; and
• participates in the agency's activities in the preparation of draft legislation.