Timeline

  • 1992

     

    Founded in Graz, Austria

    Focus on scanner development; launch of UltraScan in 1999 shifts from graphic arts to mapping.

  • 2000–2003:

     

    First Digital Aerial Camera

    Development begins; UltraCamD debuts at ASPRS Conference with 90 MP format.

  • 2006

     

    Microsoft Acquisition

    Advances Bing Maps, launches Global Ortho program; UltraMap photogrammetry software introduced.

  • 2011:

     

    UltraCam Eagle

    First aerial camera to capture 20,000+ pixels across the flight strip.

  • 2016:

     

    Return to Private Ownership

    Led by Erik Jorgensen, Stephen Lawler, Martin Ponticelli, and Alexander Wiechert. UltraCam Eagle Mark 3 released.

  • 2017:

     

    Vexcel Data Program Launch

    Proactive global imagery collection; Gray Sky program begins with Hurricane Harvey coverage.

  • 2020:

     

    UltraCam Osprey 4.1

    4th-generation camera with CMOS sensors, AMC technology; MAPPS Innovation Award. Acquisition of Geomni’s imagery and aviation assets.

  • 2021:

     

    UltraCam Condor 4.1

    High-altitude ortho imagery with DSM/DTM production; 48,462-pixel track.

  • 2022:

     

    AI Enters the Scene

    Elements AI launched; Data Program expands to 26 countries, 100,000 images/day. 30 year celebration.

  • 2023:

     

    Hybrid Mapping Breakthrough

    UltraCam Merlin 4.1 and UltraCam Dragon 4.1 (LiDAR + imagery) released. Data coverage grows to 33 countries, 5.7 million km² captured.

  • 2024:

     

    Global Reach

    Coverage expands to 40+ countries and territories; over 6.5 million km² collected annually.

  • 2025:

     

    UltraCam Osprey 4.2

    25,000+ pixels across the flight strip; 27% increase in flight efficiency.

  • Today –

     

    450+ employees worldwide (three offices: Graz, Austria, Madrid, Spain, Centennial, CO and remote workers), world’s largest aerial imagery program