How to Import Satellite Imagery into AutoCAD

Step 1: Set Up Your AutoCAD Environment

Before you start importing satellite imagery into AutoCAD, you need to set the units correctly. To do this, type UN and press Enter. Make sure the length type is set to Decimal and set the insertion scale to Meters, then press OK.

Step 2: Access the Insert Tab

Go to the Insert tab in the AutoCAD interface. Click on the downward arrow in the location panel and select From Map. Remember, you need an active internet connection to use this function.

Step 3: Search for Your Location

In the GIS interface that opens, type your desired location. For example, type Kolkata and press Enter. You can further refine your search by typing a specific landmark or area.

Step 4: Drop a Marker on the Map

Once you have located the desired spot, drop a marker by left-clicking on the plot and then right-clicking to select Drop Marker Here. Click Next to proceed.

Step 5: Set the GIS Coordinate System

Next, configure the GIS coordinate system. Set it to World Marker, the time zone to GMT +5:30, and ensure the drawing units are set to meters. Click Next to continue.

Step 6: Specify the North Direction

Right-click to stick the marker to the origin. Then, specify the north direction by pressing F8 to turn on ortho mode, and click upwards to set the north direction.

Step 7: Measure Distances

To measure distances, use the DIST command. Type DI and press Enter. Click at the endpoints you want to measure. This will give you accurate distance readings.

Step 8: Calculate Area

To find the area of a plot, you can use the AREA command. Type AREA and press Enter, then select the object or draw a polyline around the area you want to measure.

Step 9: Capture Specific Area

If you want to capture a specific area instead of the entire map, click on Capture Area. This allows you to select the viewport currently displayed on your screen.

Step 10: Customize Your Map

You can change the map styles, edit locations, and even reorient markers as needed. This feature allows for great flexibility in how you present your maps in AutoCAD.