The new UltraCam Merlin 4.1: Fundamental quality redefined

Graz, Austria • October 10, 2023

From the Intergeo 2023 in Berlin, Vexcel Imaging today announces the launch of the new UltraCam Merlin 4.1, an advanced camera system currently available in two models serving as a gateway to professional aerial data collection.

The UltraCam Merlin 4.1 is designed for efficient data capture while meeting high quality and accuracy standards demanded by professionals in the field. It captures true nadir imagery with industry-leading geometry and exceptional imaging performance. Paired with a sophisticated image processing chain, including proprietary solutions like True Pixel Processing (TPP) and Adaptive Motion Compensation (AMC), the UltraCam Merlin 4.1 delivers precision results and raises the bar for excellence in its class.

Watch the video to learn more about the new camera system and its key features:

The system is based on the 4th generation UltraCam architecture. It maximizes the collection window and drives down project expenses through a high dynamic range, a fast frame rate and an intuitive end-to-end software workflow. Paired with world-class support, customers can offer comprehensive mapping services to their clients while perfectly leveraging their investment.

Recognizing the diverse needs of businesses, Vexcel currently makes the UltraCam Merlin 4.1 available in two models: the 2010 and the 3020. The 2010 model is perfect for local projects, featuring two RGB and one NIR nadir sensor, enabling image capture at a footprint of 20,544 x 14,016 pixels. For larger projects, the recommended choice is the 3020 model, equipped with three RGB and two NIR sensors, significantly expanding the strip width to 31,300 x 14,016 pixels. No matter the scale of the project, the UltraCam Merlin 4.1 always optimizes the time spent on data collection and processing, enabling customers to meet tight deadlines and deliver results promptly.

In choosing the UltraCam Merlin 4.1, customers join a community of forward-thinking mapping companies that place their trust in Vexcel's highly integrated product ecosystem and services. The unparalleled upgrade path allows customers to expand capabilities when the time is right, elevating their business to new heights and staying ahead of the competition.

With the introduction of the UltraCam Merlin 4.1 and UltraCam Dragon 4.1 at Intergeo, Vexcel expands its range of aerial systems to meet a broader spectrum of airborne photogrammetry applications. The 4th generation UltraCam systems include both aerial cameras and hybrid camera-LiDAR mapping solutions, designed to deliver unmatched flying efficiency and exceptional data quality for best-in-class performance across all applications. Outputs include photogrammetric imagery, LiDAR point clouds, and other derived products. 

"We are excited to present the UltraCam Merlin 4.1 as a strong base for professional aerial data collection. This addition expands our product portfolio, catering to customers who have been seeking the renowned UltraCam quality in Bayer pattern-based sensors already available on the market. The UltraCam Merlin 4.1 offers a high return on investment as it provides full upgrade capability to the high-end sensors Eagle 4.1, Osprey 4.1 and Condor 4.1 as the company’s needs evolve," says Alexander Wiechert, CEO at Vexcel Imaging. "At Vexcel, we have been dedicated to pioneering the development of large format aerial cameras for more than 20 years. Having a reliable and proficient partner by your side can make all the difference, providing peace of mind and unlocking the full potential of your investment. I can’t wait for our customers to experience the difference the new UltraCam Merlin 4.1 models can make for their projects.”

The system will be available on the market by end of 2023.

Key Specifications

• 20,544 x 14,016 pixels color image size (Merlin 4.1 2010)
• 31,300 x 14,016 pixels color image size (Merlin 4.1 3020)
• True nadir imagery without tilting cones
• CMOS imaging sensors
• RGB Bayer pattern and NIR
• Adaptive Motion Compensation (AMC)
• True Pixel Processing (TPP)
• 1 frame per 0.7 seconds

About Vexcel Imaging

Vexcel Imaging is a global leader in aerial imaging, renowned for its industry-leading UltraCam aerial cameras and hybrid camera-LiDAR mapping solutions. These systems are designed to deliver unmatched flying efficiency combined with exceptional data quality, ensuring best-in-class performance for every application. Outputs include photogrammetric imagery and point clouds, LiDAR point clouds, and other derived products. The fully integrated UltraMap photogrammetric processing software enhances project workflows with advanced automation, efficient data interaction, and intuitive tools, enabling the creation of photogrammetric outputs such as DSMs, DTMs, orthoimages, and 3D data of the highest standard.