The Large Format Camera in Retrospect

Abstract

A stereopair of the Large Format Camera (LFC) imagery covering parts of the Red Sea Hills Region in eastern Sudan was evaluated for topographic mapping applications in developing countries. Conventional stereoscopic plotting instruments were used as measuring equipment. The data were then processed analytically. The same stereopair was then measured on an analytical plotter using its available software. The results show that although planimetrie and height accuracy values obtained with the conventional plotter are lower than those achieved with the analytical plotter, accuracy values of σp=±35m and σh= ±30m can easily be reached with conventional photogrammetric stereoplotters. This is an important conclusion for many developing countries where such stereoplotters are readily accessible; and where trained presonnel, who can operate, maintain and service such equipment is already available.