New USGS Unmanned Aircraft Program Could Improve Hazards Response

New USGS Unmanned Aircraft Program Could Improve Hazards Response

Article Type: News items From: Disaster Prevention and Management, Volume 17, Issue 5

The US Geological Survey (USGS) is establishing a new program for earth observation using Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). In dangerous and remote areas, such as polar regions, volcanic islands, and deserts, remote-controlled unmanned aircraft can provide detailed and timely data about the status of natural resources and environmental conditions. In many cases, UAS technology is the most cost effective way to gather earth observation data for a variety of applications such as managing federal lands, investigating climate change, mapping and charting, conducting environmental risk assessments, and responding to natural and human-induced disasters. Even in less remote areas, manned aircraft flights may not be always be feasible and satellite-based observations can be hindered by course image resolution, limited sensor capabilities, or long periods between orbiting cycles. Data collection by UAS can be tailored to the required resolution and radiometric parameters of individual investigations. Offices for the new program will be located at the USGS facility in Lakewood, Colorado. Visit the USGS Land Remote Sensing Program at http://remotesensing.usgs.gov