Which photogrammetry term is used for measuring and analyzing images to obtain quantitative data about the Earth's surface from aerial photos?

• A. Aerial Photogrammetry
• B. Interpretative Photogrammetry
• C. Metric Photogrammetry
• D. Terrestrial Photogrammetry

Answer: (C)

Measuring and analyzing images to obtain quantitative data from aerial photos is the realm of metric photogrammetry. It hinges on calibrating the camera, establishing orientation, and using ground control points so that measurements made from stereo models are accurate in real-world units. Metric photogrammetry yields precise distances, areas, elevations, and volumes, making it the method used when the goal is numerical data and map-grade accuracy. In contrast, aerial photogrammetry as a broader term covers collecting images from the air but isn't restricted to quantitative measurements; interpretative photogrammetry focuses on qualitative interpretations like land use or features rather than exact measurements; terrestrial photogrammetry uses ground-based imagery rather than airborne data.