Next-generation aerial imaging with the Sony IMX811 sensor in the Phase One iXM-RS250 

The demand for higher resolution, faster workflows, and greater efficiency in aerial mapping is driving rapid advances in sensor technology. At the heart of Phase One’s new iXM-RS250 aerial camera is the groundbreaking Sony IMX811 sensor, a 247-megapixel CMOS sensor that sets a new standard for geospatial imaging. 

Sony IMX811: A leap in resolution and performance 

The Sony IMX811 delivers a remarkable 19200×12800 pixel resolution with a 2.81 μm pixel size, providing unmatched image detail from a single sensor. Compared to earlier generations, the IMX811 achieves a higher pixel density without sacrificing image quality, enabling ultra-efficient large-area coverage. 

For aerial survey professionals, this means capturing more ground per pass, reducing flight lines, and ultimately lowering mission costs. 

iXM-RS250: Built around the IMX811, optimized by Phase One 

While the IMX811 provides the raw imaging power, Phase One’s iXM-RS250 integrates the sensor into an aerial camera purpose-built for geospatial missions. 

• Widest coverage from a single sensor 

• Map more, fly less — with up to 30% shorter flight times and reduced operational costs, Compared to the iXM-RS150, designed with the Sony IMX411 

• Smarter workflows with IIQ-X compression 

Phase One’s new IIQ-X format delivers a 60% performance boost, enabling the same capture rate as the iXM-RS150 without sacrificing forward overlap. This breakthrough facilitates true resolution improvement, while also solving storage and processing challenges by significantly reducing file sizes compared to 16-bit TIFFs, all without compromising image quality.  

RSX lens range for every mission 

Every element of the RSX lens range is engineered to match the higher standards required by ultra-high-resolution sensors. 

The new range of six NextGen RSX lenses, purpose-built for the iXM-RS250, go beyond delivering higher resolving power. A higher-resolution image sensor demands not only sharper optics, but also tighter control of chromatic aberration, focus field flatness, and environmental stability, all of which are engineered into the RSX line. Together, the RSX lenses and iXM-RS250 form a system-level performance upgrade, ensuring best-in-class sharpness and reliability across city, corridor, and wide-area surveys. 

Seamless iXM platform integration 

The iXM-RS250 utilizes the proven iXM platform, maintaining the same camera body along with identical mechanical and electrical interfaces, ensuring a seamless, plug-and-play upgrade with no workflow disruption” 

Proven image quality with a smaller pixel pitch 

A common concern with smaller pixels is reduced light sensitivity or dynamic range. Thanks to Sony’s sensor innovation and Phase One’s RSX lenses and workflow optimizations, the iXM-RS250 maintains industry-leading image quality with 81 dB dynamic range, sharp detail, and accurate color even in challenging light conditions. 

A sensor made for the future of aerial mapping 

By combining the Sony IMX811 sensor with Phase One’s proprietary IIQ-X technology and RSX lens range, the iXM-RS250 delivers not only the highest resolution but also the most commercially effective workflow in its class. 

For operators, that means faster missions, lower costs, and uncompromised image quality, a future-proof investment in next-generation aerial mapping.