Advances in technology to collect and process very large spatial datasets, such as drones and remote sensors, are increasingly helping us to better understand and manage our environment. Creating meaning and information from these ever-increasing large and complex data, though, is becoming very challenging. Geovisualisation facilitates the spatial understanding of things, concepts, conditions, processes or events in the human world.

Adding extra dimensions to the analysis of spatial data, such as 3D (elevation) or 4D (time), allows us to represent in a more realistic way the dynamic and intricate nature of environmental processes and issues. Incorporating and interacting with this state-of-the-art analysis of spatial data within immersive and augmented reality environments, such as the CAVE2, provides insight beyond the pretty pictures and enhances the communication of results.

GEO301 Mapping with drones

This course will introduce you to the application of drones as mapping platforms for environmental applications. You will learn about the basics of aerodynamics, flight navigation systems, legislation and have hands-on practical experience flying small drones (< 2 kg).

The emphasis of the course is on employing rigorous science for processing imagery acquired with drones and deriving and visualising a range of 3D mapping and classification products.

 Course topics:

• Drone platforms and navigation systems
• Drone applications for environmental science and management 
• Imagery processing with Structure from Motion algorithms 
• Classification of hyper-spatial data 
• Terrain analysis and 3D visualisation

Related majors/minors:

• Environmental Geography
• Geographical Sciences
• Geography
• Restoration and Conservation 

For further information contact: Javier Leon jleon@usc.edu.au.