Based on reviewing the methods for UAV image-sequence reconstruction, the classification on the principle and applicability of the methods is proposed. Generally, the methods involved can be divided into two groups. One is based on traditional photogrammetry, which needs more intermediate quality-control checks and more human-computer interactions. This method can be used to reconstruct large and regular image blocks. The other called the multi-view geometry method, is more like close range photogrammetry. It is more suitable for automatic reconstruction of irregular image blocks, such as specific objects and complex terrains. After comparing applicability of different methods, the related technology is expatiated, and the advantages, limitations and enhancement methods are discussed. Finally, it is pointed out that the combination of photogrammetry and computer vision is the future research direction, and the key problems to be solved are discussed.

A survey method for objects at a distance is proposed in order to resolve the problem of lacking geospatial information in stereo panorama. The current methods mainly aim at the survey for close range objects, while for a bit far range objects or even for long range objects measurement with a non-metric camera, the accuracy of the result is low if there are no control points provided. In the proposed method, GPS/INS sensors are utilized to acquire the camera’s pose data, and the original values in the relative orientation procedure are set in a new way. As a consequence, objects can be measured much more precisely on the stereo panorama, with the precision up to 1% of the distance between the camera and the objects in the performed experiments.