Supporting cutting edge research using UAS for earth science applications and missions for the National Uncrewed Systems Office (NUSO). Our UAS engineers design, build, test, and implement UAS and payload technologies supporting a wide range of projects from measuring streamflow and magnetics, to ground penetrating radar for soil moisture and snow depth. We work with USGS PI’s to develop payloads for deployment on various High Altitude, Long Endurance (HALE) aircraft. We provide technical assistance to NUPO, coordinating and participating in efforts towards further understanding aircraft safety and mechanical reliability, as well as providing engineering support to aid both current and future Department of the Interior (DOI) missions. The center develops UAS technologies that can be deployed into the UAS fleet including Formation Flight and Payload Directed Flight. We work with other federal agencies help establish further in-depth requirements for DOI and other federal fleets. Our close ties with NASA, ensures we gain experience with both payload and aircraft airworthiness processes.
