# Generate maps

## Recent Changes

We recently changed how maps are stored and generated so you can make larger maps, and as well as more efficient non-rectangular maps. If flying near the edge of the map is something you plan on doing, please make sure all your software is up to date. The important changes are listed below:

* New maps require VPS firmware version >=1.7.7  to work properly
  * Versions 1.7.4-1.7.6 will not be able to check the boundary, so leaving the map area runs the risk of breaking the VPS
* Maps are now generated to cover the entire selected area which means you are good to fly to the edges of the map. No buffer is needed anymore
* Since maps have a buffer zone around the selected area built in, map generation takes slightly longer due to more tiles needing to be processed

## Map Generation

To generate maps follow these three steps on the Theseus Maps app:

1. Search for your location [#id-1.-search-location](#id-1.-search-location "mention")
2. Select your area [#id-2.-select-area](#id-2.-select-area "mention")
3. Launch map generation [#id-3.-create-maps](#id-3.-create-maps "mention")

{% hint style="info" %}
You can expect the map generation to take \~1 hour per 1000 square km. The completed maps take up \~1GB per 200 square km so downloading a large map may take a long time with slow internet connection.
{% endhint %}

## 1. Search location

Either enter the name of your location in the search bar or enter the WGS84 coordinates of your area. Hit enter and the map will pan to your location automatically.

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## 2. Select area

Click the draw area button. This allows you to drag your area onto the map below. A widget appears with information about the size of the selected area, boundaries.

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Your selected area size must be between 50 and 50,000 sqkm.** Newly generated maps cover the entire selected area. If using maps from before Nov 19th, 2025, make sure that the boundaries of your autonomous mission include at least 2 km of padding to the edges of the selected map area.
{% endhint %}

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## 3. Create maps

Once you've selected your map area, click the Generate Maps button in the top right section of the dashboard. This will prompt with you a confirmation modal. Confirm your request to start generating your maps.

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<figure><img src="/files/3q31OGw7fwuaDJWYbO7Q" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
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## What happens under the hood?

Theseus queries its satellite map provider for imagery over the area you selected. Theseus' map matching technology is invariant to seasonal and landscape changes in the imagery. We employ commerical-grade satellite imagery with medium resolution.

## Large & Non-rectangular maps

Theseus now supports generating maps larger than 2000 square km as well as maps that fit any desired shape. You can custom make a map to fit your mission, or just choose a large area if you plan on mostly flying in the same place.


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