Fugro Horizons, Inc. integrates the best selection of technologies and processes to provide a comprehensive solution for each application:

Aerial Photography is the beginning of the photogrammetric process. High-resolution imagery is acquired with distortion-free, calibrated, aerial mapping cameras. Forward motion compensation (FMC) and gyro-stabilized mounts enhance the photographic image quality. On-board computer-controlled navigation systems and computer-aided photo center location software provides extremely precise photo acquisition.

Photogrammetry is the science and technology of deducting the physical dimensions of objects from measurements on photographs to obtain reliable information about physical objects and the environment, through processes of recording, measuring and interpreting images.

LiDAR (light detection and ranging) is a cost-effective alternative to conventional technologies for creating digital elevation models (DEMs) and digital terrain models (DTMs) with accuracy levels ranging from 15 cm to 60 cm. The LiDAR system virtually paints the surface of the earth with laser pulses that record the elapsed time until the return of the pulse. When this data is combined with information about the position and attitude of the sensor the result is a dense sampling of elevation points.

Digital Orthophotography is geographically correct aerial image files. Orthophotography is often used as a basemap for GIS (Geographic Information Systems). The advantages of orthophotos are that they provide the high information content of aerial photos with the positional accuracy of conventional maps.

Airborne Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) systems provide options in photo control that can (1) save money, (2) save time, and, (3) provide options for mapping in areas unreachable with conventional survey. These technologies, coupled with advanced analytical aerotriangulation techniques result in minimization of ground control survey time and cost.

The growth in integration of geospatial data into multiple facets of management and decision support has brought GIS (geographic information systems) to the forefront of computer information systems. Fugro Horizons, Inc. works closely with their clients to identify objectives, design, integrate and construct the geospatial information.

Developed after years of successful performance in the helicopter LiDAR market, this transformation has now been implemented with the completion of Fugro’s FLI-MAP Fx LiDAR system. The FLI-MAP Fx is a fixed wing, high density, triple look angle LiDAR system with an extended acquisition altitude range.