How to use 2D GPS Capture with 3D Scan
Overview
2D GPS Capture gives you the ability to preplan your flight using a top-down map view. Navigate to the scan location on the map and place area bounds to outline the area. Your drone will fly in a lawnmower pattern to capture the scene. Use 2D GPS Capture when you need to scan large areas such as rail yards or large construction sites and when you expect to use more than one battery.
Quick Steps
Before starting a scan, you will need to change the operating mode from Skills to 3D Scan. The operating mode will persist through power cycles.
To change operating modes:
Step 1 - Navigate to Device Settings |
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Step 2 - Select 3D Scan | ![]() |
Step 3 - Confirm Reboot Skydio will automatically reconnect to your controller and mobile device after rebooting |
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Step 4 - Select Start Scan and Agree to the disclaimer, acknowledging that you will comply with all relevant laws and FAA regulations. |
Before you fly:
- GPS is required in this scan mode
- If you will be scanning in locations that do not have an internet-enabled Wifi connection, you must import the map beforehand. Read the Download Maps sections of the Skydio 2 or Skydio X2 Enterprise Operator Manuals for more information.
- Previously downloaded maps will automatically load when you select 2D GPS Capture as your scan mode.
- If needed, you can move backwards and re-do any steps in the workflow. Doing so will reset the steps you have already completed and discards any media that has been captured. You will not be charged for discarded media.
To use 2D GPS Capture:
Move through the scan workflow using the Skydio 2 Controller or Skydio Enterprise Controller. The workflow pane will collapse when you are prompted to manually fly and the app will display available Controller shortcuts. |
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Step 1 - Select Scan Mode
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Step 2 - Name Scan Site (optional) The default scan name is composed of the scan mode you select followed by a UTC timestamp. Renaming the scan will replace the scan mode.
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Step 3 - Launch Select and hold the LAUNCH button to begin your flight. The drone will automatically climb to 16 ft (5 m) and hover. |
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Step 4 - Set Boundary Points By default, a 328 ft x 328 ft (100m x 100m) polygon will automatically appear on your screen. Adjust the boundary points by dragging the green dots to surround the area you wish to scan.
By default, GPS coordinates are visible on the map view. When enabled, coordinates are shown for the:
To enable or disable GPS coordinates on the map view:
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Step 5 - Review or Edit Scan Settings You must have at least five photos to begin a scan. In a 2D GPS Capture, the Height is relative to the launch.
Select Edit Settings and tap the Reset button in the top right corner to restore settings to defaults.
If you enable the Perimeter setting, you have the option to specify the number of photos taken.
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Perimeter enabled |
Crosshatch enabled |
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Step 5 - Launch and Begin Scan The planned flight path will turn from blue to green as the scan progresses.
You may pause at any point during your scan.
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Step 6 - Scan Complete The drone will automatically fly to the launch location upon completing the scan.
After landing, you will see a summary of the most recent scan and the option to save or discard the scan you completed.
Once processing is complete select Finish. |
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Explore More
Explore related articles for additional information
How to scan using multiple batteries
How to use the AR Coverage Mesh for 3D Captures
How to set the AR Observer in 3D Scan
If you have questions or need additional support—feel free to reach out! Skydio Support
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