GeoTerra adopts Vexcel’s fourth-generation aerial camera system

GeoTerra has acquired the UltraCam Merlin 4.1 2010 digital aerial camera system from Vexcel Imaging. The purchase represents a shift to Vexcel’s fourth-generation imaging technology. GeoTerra is a leading US-based provider of aerial mapping services.

With this addition, GeoTerra aims to enhance its capacity to produce accurate and consistent aerial imagery for a range of engineering and government mapping projects. The UltraCam Merlin 4.1 2010 is designed to support medium-format data acquisition with a focus on reliability and operational flexibility. The acquisition reflects broader trends in the geospatial sector, where investment in updated sensor technology continues to play a key role in maintaining data quality and project efficiency.

Technological competitiveness

GeoTerra supports diverse mapping projects across the USA, with a strong operational focus on the Pacific Northwest (PNW) – a region known for its rugged landscapes terrain and unique weather conditions. These environmental challenges demand dependable and adaptable technology. The UltraCam Merlin 4.1 addresses this need, ensuring GeoTerra can deliver consistent, high-quality data for projects ranging from large-scale orthophoto programmes to precise, small-scale engineering work.

The decision to invest in the UltraCam Merlin 4.1 was both strategic and practical, driven by performance, compatibility and cost-effectiveness. GeoTerra recognized the need to update its older, heavily used systems to maintain technological competitiveness, while keeping operating costs manageable. The system delivers robust performance and enhanced image quality, supported by a great base-to-height (B/H) ratio for photogrammetric data collection.

Pixel information

It is also GeoTerra’s first system compatible with Vexcel's proprietary Adaptive Motion Compensation (AMC) and True Pixel Processing (TPP) algorithms – technologies available exclusively on 4th-generation systems. AMC ensures consistently sharp images by dynamically eliminating motion-induced blur in a multi-directional, scene-aware manner. It is integrated into the TPP workflow, which preserves all pixel information from initial exposure to the final data products, maximizing information retention. The resulting imagery accurately represents the captured scene with exceptional dynamic range, sharpness and clarity. 

Before selecting the UltraCam Merlin 4.1, GeoTerra conducted a thorough evaluation of several aerial camera systems, including a review process involving feedback from key clients. Comparative tests and sample data assessments revealed a clear preference for Vexcel’s system, which consistently delivered the most reliable results. This client validation played a central role in GeoTerra’s decision, aligning with the company’s focus on maintaining high standards in data quality and service delivery.

“Integrating the new UltraCam Merlin 4.1 helps us stay at the forefront of technology while managing operational costs,” said Bret Hazell, president of GeoTerra. “This addresses our number one focus: to provide clients with the best overall value for aerial mapping services.”

GeoTerra has long relied on Vexcel camera systems, including the UltraCam LP, UltraCam XP and UltraCam Falcons. The addition of the UltraCam Merlin 4.1 continues this trusted partnership, empowering GeoTerra to meet evolving client demands with innovative, future-ready tools.