UgCS 5.9 Takes Drone Mapping to New Heights—Literally

SPH Engineering has just dropped UgCS 5.9, a major update to its drone flight-planning software, and it’s all about precision. The new release sharpens elevation data accuracy, refines mission planning, and adds support for the latest enterprise drones—making it a must-have for professionals in surveying, agriculture, and infrastructure inspection.

Altitude Control Gets a Precision Upgrade

One of the standout features in UgCS 5.9 is the ability to set exact flight altitudes for photogrammetry and corridor missions. No more relying solely on Ground Sample Distance (GSD) calculations—users can now input altitudes directly, a change driven by feedback from pilots who demanded finer control over their missions. Whether you’re mapping a construction site or inspecting power lines, this tweak means fewer adjustments mid-flight and more reliable data.

“This update is a game-changer for surveyors. Direct altitude input removes guesswork, especially in complex terrain,” says a beta tester familiar with the software.

Sharper Elevation Data for U.S. Operators

For U.S.-based drone pilots, UgCS 5.9 delivers a significant boost in elevation data resolution. The software now integrates USGS 1/3 Arc Second datasets, shrinking the resolution gap from 30 meters to just 10 meters per data point. The upgrade happens automatically for missions in the U.S., ensuring smoother terrain adaptation and fewer surprises during autonomous flights.

“High-resolution elevation data is critical for avoiding obstacles in uneven landscapes,” explains an SPH Engineering spokesperson. “This update minimizes the risk of unexpected drone behavior when flying over hills or valleys.”

New Hardware Support and Offline Flexibility

UgCS 5.9 extends compatibility to DJI’s M3D and M3TD drones, alongside existing support for the M350, M300, and Mavic 3 Enterprise series. The software’s offline capabilities remain a key selling point, allowing operators to plan and execute missions in remote areas without a reliable internet connection—a lifeline for industries like mining or forestry.

A Global Tool with Localized Smarts

Used in over 150 countries, UgCS has carved a niche in LiDAR, photogrammetry, and corridor mapping. The latest version doesn’t just add features—it refines the user experience with interface tweaks to reduce clicks and streamline workflows. For a software that handles everything from wind farm inspections to archaeological surveys, these small optimizations add up to big time savings.

Available now worldwide, UgCS 5.9 proves that in the drone industry, the devil—and the deliverable—is in the details.