Summary of Non-Platform Imagery Options
SUMMARY
This handout reviews the options for imagery sources that are not part of the Cadasta Platform.
INTRODUCTION
The Cadasta Platform and mobile application rely on the use of aerial photographs to help collect and display location data. A standard set of photographs for use are available on the Platform from a variety of archived satellite images which range in accuracy and resolution. However, in some cases, this imagery may be outdated, will not include enough details (low resolution) or have significant cloud coverage. The list below provides other sources of imagery which can be requested through Cadasta for use in your project.
NON-PLATFORM IMAGERY OPTIONS
Existing Imagery
Open Aerial Map – an online repository of drone and satellite imagery which is available for free. You can browse to a location or coordinate and then examine the available imagery in that area.
Harris IntelliEarth – an online repository of satellite imagery which can be purchased through Cadasta. You can browse to a location or coordinate, create a polygon for the area you are interested in and then examine the available imagery in that area. Image previews available are usually low resolution to preserve proprietary rights but Cadasta can reach out to request smaller snapshots to assess whether the resolution is sufficient before making the purchase.
DigitalGlobe – an online repository of satellite imagery which can be purchased through Cadasta. You can browse to a location or coordinate, create a polygon for the area you are interested in and then examine the available imagery in that area. Image previews available are usually low resolution to preserve proprietary rights but Cadasta can reach out to request smaller snapshots to assess whether the resolution is sufficient before making the purchase.
USGS Earth Explorer – an online repository of various imagery sources, primarily satellites, which can mostly be downloaded or purchased through Cadasta. You can enter a coordinate or browse to an area and then decide which imagery sources you want to review. This website requires more in-depth knowledge of the various imagery and is more centred at US-based projects but some good satellite imagery which may be useful for your project can be found and downloaded without charge (in some cases).
Notice: Please note that if you find relevant imagery you would need to reach out to the Cadasta Tech team to help you upload the imagery to the platform and publish it so that it can be used in survey forms, web maps and dashboards
New Imagery
At any point in time, new imagery for the project area can be purchased by using third party service providers to fly over the area:
Drones – useful for smaller remote areas or urban areas which may have constant cloud cover.
Manned airplanes – useful for larger areas but may be more expensive.
In both cases, please reach out to the Cadasta Tech team for help in determining the required image resolution, area of coverage and provide some initial cost estimates for this work.
If your partner has drones which they have purchased, Cadasta can connect them with third-party vendors who can help train them on how to capture and process imagery.
If your partner has drones and knows how to capture imagery, Cadasta can help connect them with third-party vendors which can process the imagery or provide training on imagery processing.