orthofotók

Orthofotos are aerial or satellite images that have been geometrically corrected to remove distortion caused by camera tilt and terrain relief. Unlike a standard aerial photograph, an orthophoto has a uniform scale throughout, meaning that measurements of distances, areas, and angles can be accurately taken directly from the image. This process is also known as orthorectification.

The geometric correction is achieved by using elevation data, typically from a digital elevation model (DEM) or a digital surface model (DSM), to warp the original image. This ensures that features are in their true planimetric positions, as if viewed directly from above. Orthofotos are essentially map-accurate photographs.

These corrected images are widely used in various fields. In surveying and mapping, they serve as a base layer for creating detailed maps and plans. Urban planners use orthofotos for land use analysis, infrastructure monitoring, and development planning. Environmental scientists utilize them for vegetation mapping, change detection, and disaster assessment. The agricultural sector employs orthofotos for precision farming, crop health monitoring, and yield estimation. Their accurate scale and clear representation of ground features make them invaluable tools for a broad range of spatial applications.