Graz, Austria • March 31, 2025 – Vexcel Imaging proudly introduces the UltraCam Osprey 4.2, the latest evolution in large-format nadir and oblique aerial imaging technology. Building upon the success of the UltraCam Osprey 4.1, the new 4.2 model offers 27% greater flight line efficiency with a swath width of over 25,000 pixels in nadir, along with enhanced operational flexibility – reducing costs and improving coverage. It delivers the highest-detail photogrammetric image quality, ensuring maximum productivity for 3D city modeling, infrastructure monitoring, and high-precision urban mapping applications.
The UltraCam Osprey 4.2 is the first Vexcel system to feature the cutting-edge 247 MP Sony IMX811 CMOS sensor in combination with custom Vexcel lenses, fully resolving the new CMOS sensor. Built with an advanced panchromatic nadir channel, the system delivers precise measurements for superior feature extraction, providing the best foundation for creating demanding derivative data products like 3D city models.
Software-based Adaptive Motion Compensation (AMC) technology eliminates all translational and rotational motion blur in nadir and oblique imagery, preserving full detail at long exposures and low ISO settings in a scale-adaptive manner. This allows users to fully leverage the high dynamic range of the new CMOS sensor, consistently ensuring crisp, high-accuracy imagery even in challenging conditions.
The UltraCam Osprey 4.2 is available in two lens configurations for enhanced operational flexibility and minimized dependence on airspace restrictions. The standard lens system model enables data capture at higher altitudes while maintaining the same ground sample distance (GSD) as its predecessor, whereas the tele lens system model extends collection capabilities much further, enabling 10 cm GSD capture at flying heights above 4,200 m. Furthermore, operators can customize image collection or processing workflows with Oblique Imaging Modes – all-active (default), nadir-only, or corridor mapping – optimizing efficiency for various applications.
Vexcel’s fully integrated UltraMap photogrammetric processing software streamlines workflows for both nadir and oblique projects. With advanced automation, intuitive tools, and optimized data interaction, UltraMap enables the seamless generation of high-precision DSMs, DTMs, orthoimages, and 3D models. The UltraCam Osprey 4.2’s superior data quality supports LOD2/LOD3 city modeling and vectorized urban mapping.
“The UltraCam Osprey 4.2 is more than just an assembly of medium-format camera heads,” said Alexander Wiechert, CEO of Vexcel Imaging. “With a thoughtfully designed system architecture, groundbreaking efficiency improvements, and the integration of the Sony IMX811 CMOS sensor, this system marks a significant leap in aerial imaging technology.”
The UltraCam Osprey 4.2 will be commercially available in autumn 2025.
Key Specifications
For more information on the UltraCam Osprey 4.2, please contact the Vexcel Imaging Sales Team.
About Vexcel Imaging
Vexcel Imaging is a global leader in aerial imaging, renowned for its industry-leading UltraCam aerial cameras and hybrid camera-LiDAR mapping solutions. These systems are designed to deliver unmatched flying efficiency combined with exceptional data quality, ensuring best-in-class performance for every application. Outputs include photogrammetric imagery and point clouds, LiDAR point clouds, and other derived products. The fully integrated UltraMap photogrammetric processing software enhances project workflows with advanced automation, efficient data interaction, and intuitive tools, enabling the creation of photogrammetric outputs such as DSMs, DTMs, orthoimages, and 3D data of the highest standard.
For more information about Vexcel Imaging, please visit: vexcel-imaging.com.
