This paper addresses the use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to carry out atmospheric data collection and studies. An important area of research is the study of the chemistry and physics of Earth's planetary boundary layer (PBL). The PBL, also known as the atmospheric boundary layer (ABL), is the lowest part of the atmosphere and its behavior is directly influenced by its contact with the planetary surface. Sampling of the PBL is performed in a timely and periodic manner. Currently, sensors and uncontrollable balloons are used to obtain relevant data and information. This method is cumbersome and can be ineffective in obtaining consistent environmental data. This paper proposes the use of autonomous UAS’ to study the atmosphere in an effort to improve the efficiency and accuracy of the sampling process. The UAS setup and design is provided, and preliminary data collection information is shared.

Date Published: 9 May 2016
PDF: 8 pages
Proc. SPIE 9862, Advanced Environmental, Chemical, and Biological Sensing Technologies XIII, 98620A (9 May 2016); doi: 10.1117/12.2224547

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 9862:
Advanced Environmental, Chemical, and Biological Sensing Technologies XIII
Tuan Vo-Dinh; Robert A. Lieberman; Günter G. Gauglitz, Editor(s)