Orienteering Unlimited: The Mapping Process

The Map Making Process

Here you'll learn how we make a special map for you. See map samples...

Our Mapping Process:

The mapping process begins by locating stereo aerial photographs, from which a basemap is drawn. The property is then walked in a careful grid ("fieldchecking") to edit and add detail to the basemap. A computerized map is made from the modified basemap. This is done with specialized mapping software. Finally, the computer version of the map is sent to a specialized printing company.

While much work goes into developing the highly detailed maps we produce, we think you'll find that they are still quite affordable.

Aerial Photographs

Once we know the area to be mapped, we purchase stereo aerial photos that cover the area. Aerial photos are made with a special camera that produces photos in "stereo pairs." [top]

stereo pair

Base Maps

The stereo pairs are placed in a "stereo plotter." The base map is drawn by hand, using a point of light -- seen by the photogrammetrist -- to trace the features shown by the stereo photographs. [top]

Fieldchecking

The property is walked thoroughly, adding detail or deleting features that no longer exist. For each square kilometer to be mapped it takes approximately 3-7 days to do the fieldchecking. [top]

Modified Base Maps


Base map made from stereo pairs	Base map with fieldwork corrections/additions

Computerized Map

The modified base map is scanned and then traced into the computer using a specialized computer program. Once a map has been computerized, any updates to it are quick and simple. [top]

Printing

The final version of the computerized map is sent to a special printing company. While maps may be done in black-and-white, most are done in 5 colors, requiring a special printing process. Only a few printing companies are able to produce the detailed maps we make. [top]