> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.flytbase.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.flytbase.com/maps-and-overlays/maps-on-flytbase.md).

# Maps on FlytBase

## Overview

Maps display geographic areas, including natural features, man-made structures, and other relevant information. FlytBase displays both **2D and 3D maps** on the Operations Dashboard.

* **2D** maps provide a **top-down** view for precise mission planning, while **3D** maps help maintain a **safe flight altitude** over natural terrain.
* 3D maps provide elevation-aware views, helps in maintaining safe flight altitudes over natural terrain.

This document will guide you on how to use these maps effectively for planning and monitoring drone operations.

## Map Interactions

You can interact with the Map on the FlytBase Dashboard using your **keyboard and mouse/trackpad**. Here’s a breakdown of the key actions:

### **1. Viewing Options:**

* **Switch Between 2D and 3D Maps:**
  * On the bottom-right of the Map, Use the **Toggle View** button to switch between 2D and 3D map views.
  * The **Compass** (located above the Toggle View button) shows the current map orientation. The default orientation is **North at the top**.
  * Switching between 2D and 3D views automatically **resets** the map orientation to default.

<figure><img src="/files/5GN8446LaWsDZi78omBJ" alt="" width="540"><figcaption><p>3D Toggle View Button</p></figcaption></figure>

* **Map Layers:**
  * FlytBase allows you to customize the visible layers on the map to suit to your needs.
  * **Base Layers:**
    * **Satellite** (default): Provides a realistic view of the terrain.
    * **Transit**: Displays simplified map visuals with emphasis on roads and boundaries.
  * **Additional Layers:** Enable or Disable additional layers for more detailed information.
    * **Map Labels**: Adds labels (e.g. names of streets) to the Satellite layer.
    * **Annotations**: Shows user-defined markers on the map.
    * **Geofences**: Displays the geographic boundaries that user has created for operations.
    * **No-Fly Zones (NFZs)**: Highlights the created restricted areas for drone flights.
    * **Map Overlays**: Adds high-resolution, site-specific images directly on the 2D Base Map.

<figure><img src="/files/Yy77iQy3wkLQjMy1mV94" alt="" width="563"><figcaption><p>Map Layers</p></figcaption></figure>

### **2. Navigating the Map:**

* **Pan the Map:**
  * Hold left-click and drag the mouse to move the map in any direction.
* **Rotate the Map:**
  * Hold the center mouse wheel (if clickable) or press Ctrl + left-click, and drag the mouse to rotate the map in 2D or 3D view.
  * The compass shows rotation and is located above the Toggle View button. Switch to 2D view to reset to default orientation (North on top).

### **3. Zooming In and Out:**

* Use the on-screen + and - buttons.
* Scroll with your mouse wheel.
* Hold right-click and move your mouse up or down.
* Swipe up or down with two fingers on your trackpad.

<figure><img src="/files/bS85oXYoxF4PFb62yasO" alt="" width="504"><figcaption><p>Zoom-In (+) and Zoom-Out (-)</p></figcaption></figure>

### **4. Centering the Map:**

Click to center the map on:

* Docking Station
* Drone
* Your location

<figure><img src="/files/rGMQaNksKL2MyEgV9MPC" alt="" width="464"><figcaption><p>Centering the map</p></figcaption></figure>

## Map Tiles and How to Update Them

* FlytBase uses map tiles and services provided by Cesium. Depending on the area, the map tiles may not be updates over a significant amount of time.
* Thus, the latest changes in the local terrain or changes at a fast-evolving site may not be reflected on the map. To mitigate this, Flytbase supports [**Map Overlays**](/maps-and-overlays/map-overlays.md).