The NUSO strives to:
Lead research and integration activities into next-generation and lower-cost UAS technology and compatible sensors
Perform research missions to support UAS testing, sensor integration, data evaluations, and the development of data acquisition guidelines and data standards
Develop leading-edge data processing techniques that use state-of-the-art computational methods to make use of the increased resolutions and accuracies made available by UAS collected low-altitude data
Support the establishment of operational USGS UAS field offices by providing training, operational procedures, platform/sensor recommendations, collection guidelines and data standards
Serve as the DOI - Center of Excellence for Scientific Investigations of UAS technology by providing access to subject matter experts and performing outreach activities including presentations, workshops, office tours, online videos, publications, and a comprehensive web presence, twitter, and instagram.
Today NUSO, through the National Land Imaging Program, continues to lead the implementation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in support of USGS natural hazards response and scientific applications. Strategic implementation of UAS within the USGS focuses on the evaluation and integration of new innovative sensors, development of data standards and processing techniques, recommendations of UAS data acquisition best-practices, and support for the training and proficiency of new and existing UAS operators.
