Version 1.0 - Initial Release
This script has two options, working forward from the flying heights to give pixel resolutions or working backward from the required pixel resolutions to give flying heights. The inputs are given in the console window and the results are saved to a CSV file in the current working directory (where the python file is located).
Limitations:
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This script is only for nadir (downward-facing) imagery. Once you get away from nadir (low or high oblique) pixel resolutions change with the depth of field (i.e. the pixels close to the camera have a higher spatial resolution than the pixels far away). That being said, this script can be used to get a ballpark estimate for low-oblique imagery.
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It only works for standard cameras, and will not work for super wide angle lens (e.g. GoPros or the wide angle lenses on the early DJI Phantom platforms). As an rule-of-thumb, the horizontal field of view for your camera should be 70 degrees or less.
Obligatory disclaimer The calculations are basic trigonometric functions that do not take into account other variables like lens distortion. Given the wide range of potential cameras the calculated values should be treated as estimates and not as absolute truth.
Useage:
Run this script from the command line or an editor. Enter the values for each prompt. The calculations in this script are unit independent, but all linear distance values
(e.g. resolutions or flying heights) need to be in the same units (feet, meters, whatever you like...).
