May 7, 2014 -- Getmapping has acquired an additional Microsoft UltraCam Eagle digital survey camera which adds both greater data capture capacity and capabilities. The camera will be used for both Getmapping’s own busy data capture schedules and be available for rent under one of the company’s flexible rental schemes.

This is the second UltraCam Eagle purchased by Getmapping but the first with a 210mm lens. The Eagle’s interchangeable lens system provides great flexibility and is specifically designed for high-resolution digital aerial photography. The 210mm lens enables imagery to be captured at 12.5 cm resolution from an altitude of 16,000 feet (4,875 metres). Notably this is well above most Air Traffic Control (ATC) restrictions which often thwart scheduled flying above key cities, busy air routes and areas of high military activity. 

The UltraCam Eagle can capture full RGB and Near Infrared (NIR) imagery at up to 2cm resolution. It takes up less aircraft space due to solid state hard drives and its reduced payload improves aircraft fuel economy. The system will support our UK and African operations and will be available for worldwide rental.

Getmapping continues to offer a range of flexible camera rental options which will help link costs directly to revenue generated. Rental options include access to the latest cameras, including the Microsoft UltraCam Eagle with a choice of 100mm or 210mm lens and the Visionmap A3 system. The rental options include:

• Standard System Rental - camera system rental for a fixed period for a fixed fee. 
• Flexible Rental - camera system rental for an agreed duration with a reduced fixed fee, plus a fee per kilometre of data captured.
• Pay As You Go - camera system rental on a ‘pay as you go’ (per kilometre captured) basis, subject to minimum targets.
• Integrated Solution - camera system rental plus image processing also available as a full ‘pay as you go’ per kilometre solution.

We have found the Microsoft UltraCam series to be exceptionally reliable during the nine years that we have been flying them said Martin Tocher, Getmapping’s Operations Director. The 210mm lens is likely to be a real asset and should help us overcome most ATC restrictions and make the best use of the limited weather opportunities here in the UK,” continued Tocher.