Ground Sample Distance Calculator
Calculate ground sample distance from sensor size, focal length, flight height, and image resolution.
What Is Ground Sample Distance?
Ground sample distance (GSD) is the real-world distance represented by one image pixel. Drone surveyors and photogrammetry teams use GSD to plan flight altitude, choose lenses, and estimate map resolution before a mission.
GSD Formula
GSD equals flight altitude multiplied by sensor width, divided by focal length and image width in pixels. Lower GSD means finer ground detail per pixel.
Related camera tools include the Crop Factor Calculator and Camera Field of View Calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good GSD for drone mapping?
Many mapping projects target 2 to 5 cm per pixel. Detailed inspections may require 1 cm per pixel or less.
How does altitude affect GSD?
GSD increases roughly in proportion to flight altitude. Flying higher produces lower resolution.
Should I use sensor width or height?
Use matching dimensions: sensor width with image width, or sensor height with image height.
What units does this calculator use?
Altitude is in meters, sensor size and focal length in millimeters, and image size in pixels. GSD can be shown in cm, m, or inches per pixel.
Can I solve for altitude from a target GSD?
Yes. Switch solve mode to calculate required flight altitude for your target GSD and camera settings.
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