Qasco photography is captured using Swiss-built Leica RC30 aerial survey cameras. This camera system is a current generation film camera that was first introduced in the 1990's. It employs the use of Forward Motion Compensation (FMC), Global Positioning Systems (GPS), Photo Exposure Meter (PEM) and automatic operation via a flight management system. By utilizing these specific cameras, our clients receive the highest resolution and accuracy available.

Aerial Survey Camera Basics:

An aerial survey camera produces a 230mm x 230mm (9" x 9") image size and uses film on 76m rolls. These camera systems weigh 150 kg and are mounted directly over a camera port in the floor of an aircraft. The cameras can be operated at the full range of the aircraft's capabilities.

Forward Motion Compensation:

This technology enables the apparent ground image motion to "freeze" on the film emulsion during the exposure cycle. FMC substantially increases image quality with respect to sharpness and resolution.

Global Positioning Systems:

Qasco utilizes this technology throughout the flight planning and project acquisition phases of aerial survey projects. Our camera systems are coupled to survey-grade GPS to ensure accurate navigation of flight lines and to precisely expose images at pre-determined photo centre positions.

Camera Calibration:

In order to provide aerial mapping services, it is vital that aerial survey cameras have accurate and up-to-date Aerial Mapping Camera Calibration Reports. These reports provide precise measurements of the characteristics of each camera system including the overall accuracy of the camera lens and drive unit. Categories include lens distortion, calibrated focal length, and fiducial measurements. All of our cameras operate with up-to-date calibration.

Aerial Film:

In order to maximize quality, Qasco utilizes Kodak 2444 film, a very fine-grain colour negative aerial camera film. It is designed for use in medium- to high-altitude aerial mapping and reconnaissance photography. It has a wide exposure latitude for maximum exposure flexibility and has improved scratch resistance and static protection properties. These properties enable cleaner scans and reproductions.

For more information on our aerial photography, visit the following links:

> Qasco Aircraft Fleet
> Low Altitude (Helicopter) Surveys and Mapping
> Gallery and Image Library