Changing the Basemap

The basemap is the background part of the map that extends beyond your property boundaries. These can be changed by selecting the Change Overlays & Basemaps button on the right-hand side of the map screen. We provide several options for basemaps so you can determine what meets your needs as you review imagery.

1. Vector - this is a black simple background. It is the default option in Lens to make it easy to see your property and the imagery layer you're reviewing.

2. Terrain - similar to what you see in Google maps, the topographic layer provides clear contrast to the imagery layer selected within your property boundaries, while also giving context into the surrounding landscape.

3. Satellite - this composite imagery from Mapbox is helpful for providing context on the landscapes surrounding your property. However, because the timing of data collection is not known and the imagery often includes captures from various times, it is likely not appropriate to use for monitoring. Satellite imagery can be selected as the basemap with or without labels such as street and city names. 

4. Topographic - this basemap displays elevation data with hillshade and elevation contours. When using this basemap we recommend using the < key shortcut to decrease opacity on truecolor imagery, making it easier to see the topographic layers under the truecolor image.