How to Use GSD Calculator
Enter sensor size, flight height, focal length, and horizontal image resolution. The calculator estimates ground sample distance in meters per pixel and centimeters per pixel, then derives approximate swath width. Keep sensor size and focal length in the same length unit, and use flight height in meters as expected by the current tool.
Formula & Theory - GSD Calculator
Ground sample distance is the real-world ground length represented by one image pixel. With sensor size and focal length in matching units, their ratio gives the field projection scale; multiplying by flight height and dividing by pixel resolution gives meters per pixel. Smaller GSD means finer ground detail.
GSD_m_per_px = sensorSize * flightHeight / (focalLength * resolution)
GSD_cm_per_px = GSD_m_per_px * 100
swathWidth = GSD_m_per_px * resolutionUse Cases for GSD Calculator
Use it for drone mapping plans, aerial survey estimates, photogrammetry notes, choosing flight altitude, comparing cameras, and checking whether a mission can meet a target centimeter-per-pixel resolution.