MicroUAV: Development of a MicroUAV-Capable Measurement System for Biodiversity Detection

The project addresses the need for remote sensing technology in the shortwave infrared (SWIR) range for biodiversity assessment. SWIR data can provide valuable insights into the water status of vegetation. To ensure spontaneous and flexible use, the sensor system is designed for deployment on micro UAVs, with compact size and lightweight construction. The system is developed as a modular payload, combining multiple spot-measuring SWIR channels with imaging VIS and NIR channels (multispectral sensors).

This modularity and configurability allow for effective use in lightweight unmanned aerial systems (UAS). The integration of SWIR enables monitoring vegetation moisture levels, which is vital for precision agriculture, floodplain and inundation monitoring, detecting fungal disease susceptibility, and selecting crop types in agriculture and forestry. The project aims to deliver SWIR measurement capabilities for UAVs under 5 kg, combine VIS and NIR imaging with SWIR sensors, and integrate modular components for thermal data collection in a unified, calibrated multi-layer image.

Grantor:

• ZIM

Partners

• Deggendorf Institute of Technology

Project Date:

• 2011 -2016

Link:

• https://zaf.th-deg.de/public/project/fact-sheet/78