FAQs
We have collected the most frequently asked user questions for you here. If you can't find the answer you're looking for, please contact us personally for help.
What is Vertical52 and how does it help my research?
Vertical52 is a platform that provides journalists with access to high-resolution satellite imagery and analytical tools to find, verify, and visualize stories.
Do I need to be a remote sensing expert?
No. Our platform is designed for storytellers. We handle the technical complexity so you can focus on your investigation.
What if it's cloudy?
For archive images, you can tell us the maximum amount of cloud cover. We only take new pictures when the weather is fine.
What is the difference between Vertical52 and Google Earth?
Google Earth often shows outdated imagery. With Vertical52, you can order current captures (tasking) or search archives for images that are only a few hours old.
What is the difference between satellite imagery and aerial photography?
Satellite images are captured daily from space without the need for a pilot. Aerial photos (from planes or drones) offer higher resolution but are taken much less frequently and are often not up to date.
What does resolution (e.g., 30 cm) mean?
Resolution indicates how much ground area one pixel covers. At 30 cm resolution, you can identify details like individual vehicles or building damage.
Why do I only see clouds?
Optical satellites cannot see through clouds. We provide a preview so you only pay for usable imagery.
Are radar images (SAR) available?
Yes, radar satellites can see through clouds and at night. This is ideal for research in tropical regions or monitoring ship movements.
How do I open a GeoTIFF?
TIFF files contain the same image data as PNGs but with geographic information. To open them, we recommend the free application QGIS.
What is "Tasking"?
If no suitable archive image exists, you can "task" a satellite to take a new photo of a specific location at a specific time.
How long does delivery take?
Depending on weather and satellite availability, delivery usually takes between 24 hours and a few days.
How do I order an image in the V52 app?
Register in our V52 app, enter your search request via GPS coordinates, upload a KML file, or draw a polygon. We will deliver the best available image within 24 hours.
Which shapefiles can I upload?
You can upload KML/KMZ, JSON, GeoJSON, TXT, and Shapefiles (.shp, .dbf, .shx, .prj).
Can I share my research with colleagues?
Yes. You can create workspaces and invite team members to access imagery and notes collaboratively without needing multiple licenses.
How reliable is the authenticity?
We source data directly from certified providers (Airbus, Planet, Maxar). Timestamps and metadata make the images court-admissible evidence.
Do you help with image interpretation?
Yes, our team assists newsrooms in analyzing complex data to avoid misinterpretation.
How secure are my data and coordinates (Source Protection)?
Data security is our top priority. Your search queries and Areas of Interest (AOIs) are private and not visible to other users or satellite operators.
Can I embed images directly into my CMS?
Yes, we provide interactive embed codes for sliders (before/after) or zoomable maps that you can easily integrate into your articles.
Is there an API for automated queries?
For data-driven projects, we offer an API to automatically search for and integrate imagery into your own systems.
Which payment methods do you accept?
We accept credit cards, PayPal, or payment by invoice, depending on your booked package.
Why do prices vary between providers?
Prices depend on resolution, recency, and the specific licensing rights of the satellite operator. We always show you the most cost-effective option first.