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Volcanological applications of unoccupied aircraft systems (UAS): Developments, strategies, and future challenges

Mike R. James·Brett B Carr·Fiona D’Arcy·Angela K. Diefenbach·Hannah R. Dietterich·Alessandro Fornaciai·Einat Lev·Emma J Liu·David C. Pieri·Mel Rodgers·Benoit Smets·Akihiko Terada·Felix W von Aulock·Thomas R. Walter·Kieran T Wood·Edgar U Zorn
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Abstract

Unoccupied aircraft systems (UAS) are developing into fundamental tools for tackling the grand challenges in volcanology; here, we review the systems used and their diverse applications. UAS can typically provide image and topographic data at two orders of magnitude better spatial resolution than space-based remote sensing, and close-range observations at temporal resolutions down to those of video frame rates. Responsive deployments facilitate dense time-series measurements, unique opportunities for geophysical surveys, sample collection from hostile environments such as volcanic plumes and crater lakes, and emergency deployment of ground-based sensors (and robots) into hazardous regions. UAS have already been used to support hazard management and decision-makers during eruptive crises. As technologies advance, increased system capabilities, autonomy and availability, supported by more diverse and lighter-weight sensors, will offer unparalleled potential for hazard monitoring. UAS are expected to provide opportunities for pivotal advances in our understanding of complex physical and chemical volcanic processes.

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Mike R. James, Brett B Carr, Fiona D’Arcy, Angela K. Diefenbach, Hannah R. Dietterich, Alessandro Fornaciai, Einat Lev, Emma J Liu, David C. Pieri, Mel Rodgers, Benoit Smets, Akihiko Terada, Felix W von Aulock, Thomas R. Walter, Kieran T Wood, Edgar U Zorn. 2020-04-09. Volcanological applications of unoccupied aircraft systems (UAS): Developments, strategies, and future challenges. https://doi.org/10.30909/vol.03.01.67114

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