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The first aerial photos were taken from a
kite in 1888 in France. During the First
Wold War, there was a need for accurate aerial maps and some photographs were
taken using the earliest aircraft at the time. This was not the easiest of
processes as neither the aircraft nor the cameras were very advanced. Hot air
balloons were used in the 1950s to acquire aerial photographs for mapping
purposes and this method was used quite extensively to map particular areas. It
was not until 1972 that the first satellite images were seen. These were taken
from one of the first satellites launched, it was called Lansat1.
Aerial cartography provides 2 types of
photographs, vertical and oblique. As the name suggests, a vertical photograph
is taken from above, looking directly down. These photos allow for precise
measurements to be ascertained which in turn provide the data to create
accurate maps. Oblique photographs are taken from an angle and these photos are
used to provide 3D imagery. These photos are a valuable asset to local
authorities and developers who can make use of them to show many different
perspectives of land and developments for both commercial and residential
purposes.
These days aerial maps are freely available
to businesses and the public who can use the aerial or satellite images to
identify specific locations quickly and easily. There are also zoom features
available for that close up view. Advancements in technology have made aerial
mapping very accurate and clear. This has made many business processes around
the world much easier. For instance, commercial and residential properties can
be viewed in an instant and getting directions to said property is easier than
ever before.
Another benefit of satellite imagery is
that it allows studies of the environment to be performed over months or years.
Using these images can show changes in the vegetation or water levels and this
can provide evidence of either damage or repair to the environment. Giving
scientists this type of information can help them to understand and evaluate
the ecosystem. It can also help determine the growing season which is important
for food production. This in turn can help scientists develop crops that will
not just survive but that will give higher yields in a certain amount of time.
It is not only scientists and the public who make use of aerial mapping, the
security services also make use of them so that they can develop national
security strategies. Using aerial images can help them see vulnerabilities and
how they can increase the safety of key buildings.
For those considering buying or renting a
property, whether for business, residential or recreational reasons, they can
see exactly where the property is located and how to get there. Students taking
part in geographical projects or studies can easily access satellite images and
with the images becoming clearer, it is now easy to see much more detail than
ever before. As you can see, there are many uses for aerial maps not only for
business but also for other purposes.