Primary data acquisition is the front end of mapping, GIS and remote sensing and involves: aviation, navigation, photography, cameras (film and digital systems), GPS systems, surveying (ground control), photogrammetry, computerized systems and above all - keeping abreast of modern techniques.

The book deals with differential GPS systems, survey flight management systems (both simple and sophisticated), film types, modern film survey cameras such as LH RC-30, Z/I RMK-TOP, digital cameras, infrared methods, laser profilers, airborne laser mapping, satellite systems, laboratory processing (chemical and digital), camera platforms (fixed wing and helicopter). A fresh approach to the subject includes: soft-copy photogrammetry using desk-top computerized systems, film scanners and direct digital camera inputs. Comparisons are made between old film-based technologies and the new digital camera systems, including the Z/I modular digital mapping camera and the LH 'push-broom' ADS 40 camera.

Historical background; Definitions and requirements; Air camera instrumentation; Photographic material for aerial photography; Exposure for aerial photography; Air film processing; Photogrammetric requirements; Image quality; Aircraft and installations; Navigation sights; Mission planning; Operational procedures: first phase; Operational procedures: second phase; System-based survey navigation; Differential GPS (DGPS); Oblique aerial photography; Airborne Laser Terrain Mapping (ALTM); Current and future developments; Glossary.

Appendices: Institutes and societies; Companies and suppliers; Abbreviations; Specifications for air survey; Basic formulae and relationships for mission planning; Conversion factors; General survey aircraft specifications and performance; Computer programs; Oblique scales; Constructing and using a self-made calibrated sensitometer.

As with its predecessor, the Manual of Aerial Survey will be an invaluable aid to survey operators, aerial photographers, photogrammetrists, surveyors, cartographers and mapping scientists, GIS specialists and the new generation of 'desk-top' mapmakers. It will continue to be the standard reference for survey practitioners, civil engineers and planners, flight crews, and academics and students in surveying, photogrammetry, remote sensing, GIS and earth sciences.