Preface

Small uncrewed aircraft systems (sUAS) are an excellent tool for introducing students (and professionals!) to the exciting world of Earth observation. sUAS (aka drones) are user-friendly, reasonably inexpensive, and can capture data (including photographs and video) of the Earth’s surface. Data collected by drones often requires image processing to support visual and quantitative analysis.

Many software options are available to process drone imagery. Many of these software options are expensive, have restrictive licenses, require robust processors, and often involve annual maintenance fees. In addition, some software options may be overly complicated for an introductory audience. Open Drone Map (ODM) is a potential software solution for educators and other professionals seeking an affordable entry to image processing. ODM also includes a viewer that lets users explore processed imagery in both two and three dimensions (2D and 3D).