How to use NightSense with Map Capture

The set of two NightSense attachments cast a light above and below your drone, illuminating the area and unlocking Skydio visual navigation and obstacle avoidance when flying at night and in low-light conditions.

For detailed getting started steps, such as how to install the attachment and available settings, read Getting Started with NightSense for Skydio X10.

[note] NightSense is not compatible with other 3D Scan modes. Customers without NightSense have the ability to complete a GPS-only Map Capturing using the Low Light Flight Environment. Read How to fly Skydio X10 at night for more information. [/note]

Recommended Settings

For optimal image and photogrammetry reconstructions for nighttime mapping, we recommend the following settings:

Example maps using recommended settings

Streetlights, vehicle headlights, and tower lights are all factors that can affect the lighting conditions of a scene. The Visible NightSense attachment enhances illumination for data capture in dim or dark environments.

For optimal balance between image quality and scan efficiency, we recommend flying at an altitude 40 - 60 ft (12 - 18 m).

• Higher altitudes can save time onsite
• Lower altitudes may result in better image quality

Altitude and Desired Results	Example Image	Orthomosaic
Best for image quality Altitude: 20 ft (6 m)
Optimal for image quality and efficiency Altitude: 40 ft (12 m)
Optimal for image quality and efficiency Altitude: 60 ft (18 m)
Best for efficiency Altitude: 80 ft (24 m)

FAQ

[accordion heading="Will the flashlight on VT300-L provide sufficient illumination for nighttime mapping?"]

The flashlight of the VT300-L sensor package provides effective illumination up to 10 ft (3 m) and is not expected to be useful for most nighttime mapping operations conducted above this height.

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[accordion heading="Will the spotlight attachments provide sufficient illumination for nighttime mapping?"]

Spotlight is not recommended for nighttime mapping. Although the Spotlight casts light with 5500 lumens, its position on the drone and the narrow FOV may result in a bright spot on the image, compromising the image and reconstruction quality.

[/accordion]

[accordion heading="Does Onboard Modeling work with images captured at night?"]

Yes, you still have the ability to process onboard maps when scanning at night.

[/accordion]

Skydio, Inc. A0528