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The Aerial Imaging and Mapping group (AIM), at the U.S. Geological Survey Woods (USGS) Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center provides UAS services to scientists to advance the science mission of the Coastal and Marine Geology Program. Scientists at the Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center have been using UASs to acquire imagery of coastal and wetland environments, which is then used to produce detailed topographic and visual reflectance datasets. UAS technology is used to support the work of geologists, engineers, physical scientists, geographers, and geochemists who study coastal erosion, sediment transport and storm response, habitat classification, biomass mapping, and marsh stability.
Unmanned aerial system (UAS) technology provides a rapid and low-cost solution for mapping coastal environments and assessing short- and long-term changes. The interdisciplinary nature of the data collected and the breadth of applications makes UAS technology applicable to multiple scientific investigations.
One of the primary science applications for UASs is mapping. Drones can make accurate maps by combining images, which can be interpolated into three-dimensional imagery with software that utilizes photogrammetric techniques to form orthomosaics and digital surface models. Using control points on the ground, these maps can be produced with horizontal resolutions of 5 to 10 centimeters (cm) and vertical precision within 8 cm, precision is measured compared with independent measurements from global navigation satellite system equipment with real-time kinematic positioning (RTK). The maps created with drone-acquired imagery are comparable in quality with images from light detection and ranging (lidar) surveys with color processing but can be produced at a fraction of the cost.
UAS map products can be used to meet many science objectives, including to quantify geomorphic changes in coastal landscapes, classify landcover and geomorphic features in wetland and riparian landscapes, and assess habitat suitability. UASs can be equipped with multispectral cameras (cameras that capture images within specific ranges across the electromagnetic spectrum) and can be used to classify vegetation or identify invasive species. Other potential applications for UASs include inferring nearshore bathymetry from drone imagery of waves, measuring shallow bathymetry in streams and estuaries, measuring stream or inlet flow using image processing methods or UAS-mounted radar, and making thermal measurements to identify groundwater discharges.
The AIM group at the Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center currently [2018] has five UAS pilots who are certified in accordance with U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) policies. The center currently has three 3DR Solo quadcopter drones, and a Birds Eye View FireFly6 Pro fixed-wing UAS. Both UASs can be mounted with a Pentax Ricoh GRII natural-color, high-resolution, global shutter camera, a MicaSense Rededge3 multispectral wavelength camera, or a GoPro Hero 4 compact camera. Trimble Spectra Precision SP80 Global Navigation Satellite System receivers are used to precisely geolocate control points at survey areas. Images from drone flights are processed with Agisoft Photoscan software, and Pix4D processing software.
With this equipment, the AIM group can survey a study area of approximately 0.5 to 1 square kilometer (160 acres) per day. Each multiplatform survey requires approximately five people to perform the survey efficiently, including two pilots, two survey crew, and a visual observer and data recorder.
The USGS Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center maintains an ongoing collaboration with scientists and UAS technicians at the USGS National Unmanned Aircraft Systems Project in Denver, Colorado; other institutions, including the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution; and local UAS operators and contractors. Woods Hole pilots have assisted DOI’s Office of Aviation Services (OAS) in monitoring natural hazard emergencies and have been instructors for OAS-sponsored training classes. This networking and collaboration helps the AIM group remain current in a rapidly evolving technological field.
Below are multimedia items associated with the Aerial Imaging and Mapping project.
USGS unmanned aerial system (drone) pilot collecting aerial imagery and ground control points for the Coastal Resource Evaulation for Management Applications (CREMA) project on Dauphin Island, Alabama
USGS unmanned aerial system (drone) pilot collecting aerial imagery and ground control points for the Coastal Resource Evaulation for Management Applications (CREMA) project on Dauphin Island, Alabama
Department of Interior UAS pilots from left to right – Elizabeth Pendleton (USGS, Woods Hole, MA), Colin Milone (Office of Aviation Services, AK), John Vogel (USGS; Flagstaff, AZ), Sandy Brosnahan (USGS, Woods Hole, MA), Brandon Forbes (USGS; Tucson, AZ), Chris Holmquist-Johnson (USGS; Fort Collins, CO),&nb
Department of Interior UAS pilots from left to right – Elizabeth Pendleton (USGS, Woods Hole, MA), Colin Milone (Office of Aviation Services, AK), John Vogel (USGS; Flagstaff, AZ), Sandy Brosnahan (USGS, Woods Hole, MA), Brandon Forbes (USGS; Tucson, AZ), Chris Holmquist-Johnson (USGS; Fort Collins, CO),&nb
Sandy Baldwin, Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center, shares video from the kilauea volcano with Science Stroll participants.
Sandy Baldwin, Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center, shares video from the kilauea volcano with Science Stroll participants.
Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) demonstration at 2018 Woods Hole, MA Science Stroll
Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) demonstration at 2018 Woods Hole, MA Science Stroll
2018 Woods Hole, MA Science Stroll USGS drone demonstration
2018 Woods Hole, MA Science Stroll USGS drone demonstration
USGS drone demonstration at the 2018 Woods Hole, MA Science Stroll
USGS drone demonstration at the 2018 Woods Hole, MA Science Stroll
USGS drone demonstration at the 2018 Woods Hole, MA Science Stroll
USGS drone demonstration at the 2018 Woods Hole, MA Science Stroll
USGS Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) pilot, Elizabeth Pendleton, setting a target in Great Marsh, Sandy Neck Beach, Cape Cod, Massachusetts
USGS Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) pilot, Elizabeth Pendleton, setting a target in Great Marsh, Sandy Neck Beach, Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Sandy Brosnahan (left) and Ellizabeth Pendleton (right), Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) pilots flying drones at Sandy Neck Beach, Cape Cod, MA.
Sandy Brosnahan (left) and Ellizabeth Pendleton (right), Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) pilots flying drones at Sandy Neck Beach, Cape Cod, MA.
Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center Aerial Imaging and Mapping (AIM) group on Great Marsh, Cape Cod, MA
Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center Aerial Imaging and Mapping (AIM) group on Great Marsh, Cape Cod, MA
Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) pilots Sandy Brosnahan (left) and Elizabeth Pendleton conduct a drone flight from atop a dune at Sandy Neck (Cape Cod).
Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) pilots Sandy Brosnahan (left) and Elizabeth Pendleton conduct a drone flight from atop a dune at Sandy Neck (Cape Cod).
Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center unmanned aerial systems (uas) pilots conduct drone flights at Sandy Neck Beach, Cape Cod, MA
Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center unmanned aerial systems (uas) pilots conduct drone flights at Sandy Neck Beach, Cape Cod, MA
Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center's Aerial Imaging and Mapping Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) pilots, Emily Sturdivant (left) and Elizabeth Pendleton (right) working the night shift in Hawaii at the Kileaua volcano site.
Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center's Aerial Imaging and Mapping Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) pilots, Emily Sturdivant (left) and Elizabeth Pendleton (right) working the night shift in Hawaii at the Kileaua volcano site.
Providing situational awareness at night, Elizabeth Pendleton, Sandy Brosnahan, and Emily Sturdivant prepare for a UAS take-off
Providing situational awareness at night, Elizabeth Pendleton, Sandy Brosnahan, and Emily Sturdivant prepare for a UAS take-off
Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center's Aerial Imaging and Mapping rock stars preparing to fly Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) mission while a river of lava flows in the background
Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center's Aerial Imaging and Mapping rock stars preparing to fly Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) mission while a river of lava flows in the background
Rob Thieler, Sandy Brosnahan and Alex Nichols deploying ground control targets for a UAS study on Coast Guard National Seashore in Eastham, MA.
Rob Thieler, Sandy Brosnahan and Alex Nichols deploying ground control targets for a UAS study on Coast Guard National Seashore in Eastham, MA.
A 3DR Solo quadcopter is collecting imagery at Chimney Bluffs State Park in NY. Using photogrammetric techniques, a 3D surface model was created providing elevation data.
A 3DR Solo quadcopter is collecting imagery at Chimney Bluffs State Park in NY. Using photogrammetric techniques, a 3D surface model was created providing elevation data.
The 3DR Solo quadcopter in flight, with a Ricoh GRII camera mounted, taking pictures to be used in photogrammetric techniques to produce 3D surface models.
The 3DR Solo quadcopter in flight, with a Ricoh GRII camera mounted, taking pictures to be used in photogrammetric techniques to produce 3D surface models.
Drone image of Nauset Inlet, Cape Cod National Seashore, Massachusetts
Drone image of Nauset Inlet, Cape Cod National Seashore, Massachusetts
Top left- Rob Thieler, Sandy Brosnahan and Alex Nichols deploying ground control targets for a UAS study on Coast Guard National Seashore in Eastham, MA.
Top left- Rob Thieler, Sandy Brosnahan and Alex Nichols deploying ground control targets for a UAS study on Coast Guard National Seashore in Eastham, MA.
The surf zone at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Newbury MA
The surf zone at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Newbury MA
FAQ associated with the Aerial Imagine and Mapping group
Yes, approval is required for operating uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS). The USGS receives flight approval from the Federal Aviation Administration prior to every UAS mission. The official document is referred to as a Certificate of Authorization and Waiver. It is the approval process by which the Federal Aviation Administration allows for public agencies to operate UAS in the National Airspace...
Training for USGS uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) operators is provided by the Department of the Interior Office of Aviation Services. The training has been approved by the Federal Aviation Administration and is specific to the types of UAS that the department operates. The training provides operators with the skills and knowledge necessary to operate a small UAS in the National Airspace System.
All data collected by USGS uncrewed aircraft systems are processed and used in support of mission-specific research objectives. The vast majority of the resource management and scientific data will be archived for long-term use and placed in the public domain. Learn more: National Uncrewed Systems Office
The USGS is a bureau within the Department of the Interior (DOI), which requires the following actions related to privacy: Operating uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) primarily over DOI lands. Obtaining written permission from landowners when UAS operations need to launch and/or land on their property. Following standard Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and DOI-approved procedures for aircraft...
The Department of the Interior and USGS uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) operational strategy emphasizes small systems with a combined aircraft and payload weight of less than 55 pounds. These small UAS are designed to support short (90 minute) missions and operate on rechargeable batteries or gasoline. This strategy recognizes that any given small UAS model will have a limited life span based on...
Uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) provide an affordable solution when the USGS needs "eyes in the sky" but doesn’t have the budget to maintain a fleet of aircraft or to obtain commercial imagery. The USGS relies on a variety of remotely sensed data. UAS can provide a range of remote sensing data types, from aerial images to hyperspectral or Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data at resolutions down to...
The USGS National Uncrewed Systems Office (UAS) and the Office of Aviation Services are leading the development and testing of UAS scientific and resource management technology across the Department of the Interior in coordination with the other bureaus. Department of the Interior UAS capabilities support a range of activities including scientific research, monitoring environmental conditions...
The Aerial Imaging and Mapping group (AIM), at the U.S. Geological Survey Woods (USGS) Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center provides UAS services to scientists to advance the science mission of the Coastal and Marine Geology Program. Scientists at the Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center have been using UASs to acquire imagery of coastal and wetland environments, which is then used to produce detailed topographic and visual reflectance datasets. UAS technology is used to support the work of geologists, engineers, physical scientists, geographers, and geochemists who study coastal erosion, sediment transport and storm response, habitat classification, biomass mapping, and marsh stability.
Unmanned aerial system (UAS) technology provides a rapid and low-cost solution for mapping coastal environments and assessing short- and long-term changes. The interdisciplinary nature of the data collected and the breadth of applications makes UAS technology applicable to multiple scientific investigations.
One of the primary science applications for UASs is mapping. Drones can make accurate maps by combining images, which can be interpolated into three-dimensional imagery with software that utilizes photogrammetric techniques to form orthomosaics and digital surface models. Using control points on the ground, these maps can be produced with horizontal resolutions of 5 to 10 centimeters (cm) and vertical precision within 8 cm, precision is measured compared with independent measurements from global navigation satellite system equipment with real-time kinematic positioning (RTK). The maps created with drone-acquired imagery are comparable in quality with images from light detection and ranging (lidar) surveys with color processing but can be produced at a fraction of the cost.
UAS map products can be used to meet many science objectives, including to quantify geomorphic changes in coastal landscapes, classify landcover and geomorphic features in wetland and riparian landscapes, and assess habitat suitability. UASs can be equipped with multispectral cameras (cameras that capture images within specific ranges across the electromagnetic spectrum) and can be used to classify vegetation or identify invasive species. Other potential applications for UASs include inferring nearshore bathymetry from drone imagery of waves, measuring shallow bathymetry in streams and estuaries, measuring stream or inlet flow using image processing methods or UAS-mounted radar, and making thermal measurements to identify groundwater discharges.
The AIM group at the Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center currently [2018] has five UAS pilots who are certified in accordance with U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) policies. The center currently has three 3DR Solo quadcopter drones, and a Birds Eye View FireFly6 Pro fixed-wing UAS. Both UASs can be mounted with a Pentax Ricoh GRII natural-color, high-resolution, global shutter camera, a MicaSense Rededge3 multispectral wavelength camera, or a GoPro Hero 4 compact camera. Trimble Spectra Precision SP80 Global Navigation Satellite System receivers are used to precisely geolocate control points at survey areas. Images from drone flights are processed with Agisoft Photoscan software, and Pix4D processing software.
With this equipment, the AIM group can survey a study area of approximately 0.5 to 1 square kilometer (160 acres) per day. Each multiplatform survey requires approximately five people to perform the survey efficiently, including two pilots, two survey crew, and a visual observer and data recorder.
The USGS Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center maintains an ongoing collaboration with scientists and UAS technicians at the USGS National Unmanned Aircraft Systems Project in Denver, Colorado; other institutions, including the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution; and local UAS operators and contractors. Woods Hole pilots have assisted DOI’s Office of Aviation Services (OAS) in monitoring natural hazard emergencies and have been instructors for OAS-sponsored training classes. This networking and collaboration helps the AIM group remain current in a rapidly evolving technological field.
Below are multimedia items associated with the Aerial Imaging and Mapping project.
USGS unmanned aerial system (drone) pilot collecting aerial imagery and ground control points for the Coastal Resource Evaulation for Management Applications (CREMA) project on Dauphin Island, Alabama
USGS unmanned aerial system (drone) pilot collecting aerial imagery and ground control points for the Coastal Resource Evaulation for Management Applications (CREMA) project on Dauphin Island, Alabama
Department of Interior UAS pilots from left to right – Elizabeth Pendleton (USGS, Woods Hole, MA), Colin Milone (Office of Aviation Services, AK), John Vogel (USGS; Flagstaff, AZ), Sandy Brosnahan (USGS, Woods Hole, MA), Brandon Forbes (USGS; Tucson, AZ), Chris Holmquist-Johnson (USGS; Fort Collins, CO),&nb
Department of Interior UAS pilots from left to right – Elizabeth Pendleton (USGS, Woods Hole, MA), Colin Milone (Office of Aviation Services, AK), John Vogel (USGS; Flagstaff, AZ), Sandy Brosnahan (USGS, Woods Hole, MA), Brandon Forbes (USGS; Tucson, AZ), Chris Holmquist-Johnson (USGS; Fort Collins, CO),&nb
Sandy Baldwin, Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center, shares video from the kilauea volcano with Science Stroll participants.
Sandy Baldwin, Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center, shares video from the kilauea volcano with Science Stroll participants.
Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) demonstration at 2018 Woods Hole, MA Science Stroll
Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) demonstration at 2018 Woods Hole, MA Science Stroll
2018 Woods Hole, MA Science Stroll USGS drone demonstration
2018 Woods Hole, MA Science Stroll USGS drone demonstration
USGS drone demonstration at the 2018 Woods Hole, MA Science Stroll
USGS drone demonstration at the 2018 Woods Hole, MA Science Stroll
USGS drone demonstration at the 2018 Woods Hole, MA Science Stroll
USGS drone demonstration at the 2018 Woods Hole, MA Science Stroll
USGS Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) pilot, Elizabeth Pendleton, setting a target in Great Marsh, Sandy Neck Beach, Cape Cod, Massachusetts
USGS Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) pilot, Elizabeth Pendleton, setting a target in Great Marsh, Sandy Neck Beach, Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Sandy Brosnahan (left) and Ellizabeth Pendleton (right), Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) pilots flying drones at Sandy Neck Beach, Cape Cod, MA.
Sandy Brosnahan (left) and Ellizabeth Pendleton (right), Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) pilots flying drones at Sandy Neck Beach, Cape Cod, MA.
Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center Aerial Imaging and Mapping (AIM) group on Great Marsh, Cape Cod, MA
Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center Aerial Imaging and Mapping (AIM) group on Great Marsh, Cape Cod, MA
Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) pilots Sandy Brosnahan (left) and Elizabeth Pendleton conduct a drone flight from atop a dune at Sandy Neck (Cape Cod).
Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) pilots Sandy Brosnahan (left) and Elizabeth Pendleton conduct a drone flight from atop a dune at Sandy Neck (Cape Cod).
Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center unmanned aerial systems (uas) pilots conduct drone flights at Sandy Neck Beach, Cape Cod, MA
Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center unmanned aerial systems (uas) pilots conduct drone flights at Sandy Neck Beach, Cape Cod, MA
Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center's Aerial Imaging and Mapping Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) pilots, Emily Sturdivant (left) and Elizabeth Pendleton (right) working the night shift in Hawaii at the Kileaua volcano site.
Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center's Aerial Imaging and Mapping Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) pilots, Emily Sturdivant (left) and Elizabeth Pendleton (right) working the night shift in Hawaii at the Kileaua volcano site.
Providing situational awareness at night, Elizabeth Pendleton, Sandy Brosnahan, and Emily Sturdivant prepare for a UAS take-off
Providing situational awareness at night, Elizabeth Pendleton, Sandy Brosnahan, and Emily Sturdivant prepare for a UAS take-off
Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center's Aerial Imaging and Mapping rock stars preparing to fly Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) mission while a river of lava flows in the background
Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center's Aerial Imaging and Mapping rock stars preparing to fly Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) mission while a river of lava flows in the background
Rob Thieler, Sandy Brosnahan and Alex Nichols deploying ground control targets for a UAS study on Coast Guard National Seashore in Eastham, MA.
Rob Thieler, Sandy Brosnahan and Alex Nichols deploying ground control targets for a UAS study on Coast Guard National Seashore in Eastham, MA.
A 3DR Solo quadcopter is collecting imagery at Chimney Bluffs State Park in NY. Using photogrammetric techniques, a 3D surface model was created providing elevation data.
A 3DR Solo quadcopter is collecting imagery at Chimney Bluffs State Park in NY. Using photogrammetric techniques, a 3D surface model was created providing elevation data.
The 3DR Solo quadcopter in flight, with a Ricoh GRII camera mounted, taking pictures to be used in photogrammetric techniques to produce 3D surface models.
The 3DR Solo quadcopter in flight, with a Ricoh GRII camera mounted, taking pictures to be used in photogrammetric techniques to produce 3D surface models.
Drone image of Nauset Inlet, Cape Cod National Seashore, Massachusetts
Drone image of Nauset Inlet, Cape Cod National Seashore, Massachusetts
Top left- Rob Thieler, Sandy Brosnahan and Alex Nichols deploying ground control targets for a UAS study on Coast Guard National Seashore in Eastham, MA.
Top left- Rob Thieler, Sandy Brosnahan and Alex Nichols deploying ground control targets for a UAS study on Coast Guard National Seashore in Eastham, MA.
The surf zone at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Newbury MA
The surf zone at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Newbury MA
FAQ associated with the Aerial Imagine and Mapping group
Yes, approval is required for operating uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS). The USGS receives flight approval from the Federal Aviation Administration prior to every UAS mission. The official document is referred to as a Certificate of Authorization and Waiver. It is the approval process by which the Federal Aviation Administration allows for public agencies to operate UAS in the National Airspace...
Training for USGS uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) operators is provided by the Department of the Interior Office of Aviation Services. The training has been approved by the Federal Aviation Administration and is specific to the types of UAS that the department operates. The training provides operators with the skills and knowledge necessary to operate a small UAS in the National Airspace System.
All data collected by USGS uncrewed aircraft systems are processed and used in support of mission-specific research objectives. The vast majority of the resource management and scientific data will be archived for long-term use and placed in the public domain. Learn more: National Uncrewed Systems Office
The USGS is a bureau within the Department of the Interior (DOI), which requires the following actions related to privacy: Operating uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) primarily over DOI lands. Obtaining written permission from landowners when UAS operations need to launch and/or land on their property. Following standard Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and DOI-approved procedures for aircraft...
The Department of the Interior and USGS uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) operational strategy emphasizes small systems with a combined aircraft and payload weight of less than 55 pounds. These small UAS are designed to support short (90 minute) missions and operate on rechargeable batteries or gasoline. This strategy recognizes that any given small UAS model will have a limited life span based on...
Uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) provide an affordable solution when the USGS needs "eyes in the sky" but doesn’t have the budget to maintain a fleet of aircraft or to obtain commercial imagery. The USGS relies on a variety of remotely sensed data. UAS can provide a range of remote sensing data types, from aerial images to hyperspectral or Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data at resolutions down to...
The USGS National Uncrewed Systems Office (UAS) and the Office of Aviation Services are leading the development and testing of UAS scientific and resource management technology across the Department of the Interior in coordination with the other bureaus. Department of the Interior UAS capabilities support a range of activities including scientific research, monitoring environmental conditions...