There are a number of different processed output types you can request in Birdi. Knowing what each one is will help you decide if you need to process all of them, or only a subset (but note: we charge by total gigapixel of a processing job, not number of output types).

An orthophoto is a high-resolution, geometrically corrected image that combines multiple aerial photos into one cohesive map. Unlike standard photographs, orthomosaics are corrected for lens distortion, topographic relief, and camera tilt, ensuring that the scale is uniform and the image is an accurate representation of the Earth's surface. This makes them ideal for applications in mapping, surveying, and geographic analysis.

A point cloud is a dense collection of individual data points that represent the 3D coordinates of the surface of an object or terrain. Each point in the cloud has an X, Y, and Z coordinate, capturing the spatial structure and details of the subject. Point clouds are commonly used in various fields such as architecture, engineering, and geospatial analysis for creating detailed 3D models and conducting precise measurements.

A Digital Surface Model (DSM) represents the Earth's surface and includes all objects on it, such as buildings, vegetation, and other structures. It is generated from aerial or satellite imagery and provides a 3D representation of the terrain, capturing the elevation of the highest points of the features present. DSMs are crucial for urban planning, infrastructure development, and environmental studies.

A Digital Terrain Model (DTM) depicts the bare earth surface without any objects like buildings or vegetation. It is created by removing the features captured in the DSM, providing a clear view of the underlying terrain. DTMs are essential for hydrological modeling, earthworks design, and any application where understanding the natural landscape is critical.

A textured mesh is a 3D model that includes not only the geometric structure of a surface but also the color and texture information. It is created by draping high-resolution imagery over a 3D mesh model, resulting in a realistic and visually detailed representation. Textured meshes are widely used in virtual reality, gaming, urban planning, and heritage conservation for immersive and accurate visualizations.

Contours are lines on a map that connect points of equal elevation, representing the topography of the terrain. These lines help visualize the slope, elevation, and shape of the land surface. Contour maps are vital tools in fields such as civil engineering, geology, and environmental science for tasks like site planning, flood risk assessment, and landscape analysis.