Creating an Orthomosaic in ArcGIS Pro

Figure 1: ArcGIS Pro Logo 

Introduction:

ArcGIS Pro is a data processing application developed by ESRI that can be used for a variety of applications. One such application is to take geostatic data and imagery collected via Unmanned Aerial Vehicles to create a variety of maps. In the following post we will be going over the steps to make a simple orthomosaic, as well as adding GCP data onto said map.

Method:

Figure 2: ArcGIS Pro HomeScreen

• From the ArcGIS home screen, first select Map under New. 
• After clicking on map, a pop up will display to "create a new project"

Figure 3: Create new project

• After naming your project and choosing where it will go, click okay to generate the base map.
• Once on the main screen of the map, first start by either adding the data set via the prompts in the insert tab, or more simply drag the data set you need onto the map.
• For this tutorial I will be adding a GCP data set and a transparent mosaic gathered from Purdue Wildlife Area on April 7th 2021

Figure 4: ArcGIS Pro After data is added

• After data is added, make sure that the topographic map is under the mosaic added, this way the mosaic will appear.
• Now its time to make our deliverable map.
• Firstly, Select the New Layout option in the top left corner, and select a paper layout that you would like.

Figure 5: Blank Layout

• After you have selected the frame you want, under the map frames section, select map frame and choose the map you would like to display in your frame.
• After selecting it, drag a box shape onto your map that you would like to display.
• Your map frame may not show exactly what you want, so right click on the frame, select activate, and you can then move around in the frame like you would a map.

Figure 6: Map Frame Added

• Once you have the map frame how you want it, add other details to your map such as a north arrow, scale bar, titles, legends, etc.
• Make sure you have a watermark on your template so that way it is known that it is your property.

Figure 7: Details and Other Map frame Added

You may have noticed something is missing. The GCPs!

• To add GCP data, right click on the table in the contents page and select add XY data.
• Alternatively, click on the add data drop down and select XY data.

Figure 8: Selecting Coordinate System

• Firstly, make sure you specify what coordinate systems you are using for this data set, which will vary depending on your application.

Figure 9: XY Data menu

• Once you have the coordinate system selected, choose which data field will go to each coordinate on your map. Make sure these are correct or they will not display correctly.

Figure 10: Finished Map

After all this you have a finished deliverable map! There is a variety of other options for what to add to your template, and it largely depends on your style and what the application is for.

This concludes the tutorial.