Lab #3: Building Maps with UAS Data in ArcGIS Pro

                                          Figure 1: Lab 3 Finished Aerial View Map

                            Figure 2: Lab 3 Slope Map                Figure 3: Lab 3 Aspect Map

Introduction

The goal for this assignment was to use all the skills we have learned thus far to create a professional map using ArcGIS Pro. We used many new tools such as hillshading, slope, aspect,  3D modeling, map functions and tools, and much more.

·         Why are proper cartographic skills essential in working with UAS data? 

Having adequate cartographic skills is essential in UAS because making maps using geographic data is an essential skill to have right now.

·         What are the fundamentals of turning either a drawing or an aerial image into a map? 

      Turning drawings and aerial images into a map condenses a lot of flight data into a small easy to navigate unit. Being able to see and manipulate large amounts of data in a map allows you to display that data to others a lot easier.

·         What can spatial patterns of data tell the reader about UAS data? Provide several examples. 

Having different spatial patterns of the same data is useful because it allows you to see the data from different points of view. Having an orthomosaic with a slope, hill shade, and aspect view is essential to see what the map has to offer the viewer.

·         What are the objectives of the lab?

The objectives of this lab were to make a detailed map with multiple spatial patterns that showed other aspects of the map data. The lab also allowed us to play around with tools that make the map look better and more professional such as, the north symbol, scales, small map views, legends, and locators.

Methods

Figure 4: Meta Data Table

We started this lab by opening ArcGIS Pro. We made sure we had all our data and that the data bases and file folders were all linked correctly. We started analyzing the data, combing maps, and using tools such as hillshade to look at the data through different lenses. We created a final map with our orthomosaic, aspect map, slope map, and our 3D along with map tools to make a professional final product.


What key characteristics should go into folder and file naming conventions 

Using easy to find naming techniques. Try and limit the amount of folders you have and put data in their corresponding folders for easy locating.

Why is file management so key in working with UAS data? How does this relate to the metadata?

Being able to find data as easy as possible is essential. UAS data comes in large sets and needs to be organized so it can be accessed with ease. Organizing data with the meta data can help you locate specific data you are looking for.

What key forms of metadata should be associated with every UAS mission

Date, UAS platform, sensor, altitude flown, GPS, GCC, UAS coordinates, and the pilot.

What base map did you use? Why?

Orthomosaic or street view was used because it showed the layout the best.

What is the purpose of these commands? 

The purpose of the pyramid was to making viewing the DSM easier. Also calculating statistics helped pull out essential data in an easier to view format.

Why might knowing Cell Size, Units, Projection, Highest Elevation, Lowest Elevation be important?

Without these values it can be easy to misinterpret important data.

What is the difference between a DSM and DEM?

DSM is a digital surface model that displays the natural elevation and terrain. DEM is a digital elevation model that displays more in-depth attributes of the map such as, roads, vegetations, and structures.

What does hillshading do towards being able to visualize relief and topography

Hillshading helps distinguish areas of different elevation and degrees.

How does the orthomosaic relate to what you see in the shaded relief of the 

The orthomosaic helps scale back multiple layers for a more accurate map. DSM helps you distinguish angles and elevation in the map’s terrain.

What benefits does hill shade and 3D view provide? How might this relate to presenting this information to a client/customer? 

The benefits of hillshade in a 3D model helps show the terrain more accurately and is easier for the customer to take in.

What color ramp did you use? Why?

I used blue for a softer color on the eye and it brings out the differences in the terrain.

How might these forms of value-added data analysis prove useful to various applied situations?

The mining industry might find the aspect data point of view helpful due to the easy to take in map imagery.

Conclusion

Summarize what makes UAS data useful as a tool to the cartographer and GIS user 


UAS data is a useful tool to the user and GIS user because it can cover a large area of data in a much faster way. You can collect this data however you please using different equipment and sensors. This data is a lot more accurate than traditional means of gathering this type of data.


What limitations does the data have? What should the user know about the data when working with it.

This data can be limited by the amount of resources you have on storage data and the type of equipment you are using. Data can take a very long time to process and there is a possibility that the data could become corrupted and useless.


Speculate what other forms of data this data could be combined with to make it even more useful


This data could be combined with a lot of other data that you could gather over the same area. Such as vegetation growth, animal surveillance, and possible erosion monitoring.