The S0 UAS, a Small and Ruggedized UAS Capable of High Altitude Atmospheric Profiling

Abstract:

Unmanned aircraft provide instrument platforms that are able to operate in airspaces that are otherwise too difficult or hazardous for manned aircraft. In addition, small UAS (UAS) are typically more economical to construct, operate, and maintain than manned systems or larger UAS. This makes the loss of aircraft more acceptable in some high-risk applications. Furthermore, the simultaneous deployment of multiple aircraft for improved temporal (flight scheduling) or spatial (formation flying) measurements can be more feasible with relatively low-cost UAS. Therefore, the use of UAS is well-suited to making targeted, in situ measurements of atmospheric phenomenon to span the gaps in current data collection methods. These platforms have been shown to be capable of carrying a variety of sensors, including mass spectrometers, gas sensors and basic atmospheric sensors. The wider use of these sensing capabilities is limited only by the current availability of airframes and avionics, which have not been designed for specific use in atmospheric sounding and so are overly complex to operate or incapable of operations in a high wind environment.

This presentation will provide updates on the process to develop and test a purpose built vehicle for performing atmospheric soundings. Making use of the latest developments in wind velocity measurements, this UAS is able to provide all of the necessary measurements for accurate modeling, while maintaining a compact form factor. Given the vehicle is purpose built for atmospheric sampling, the data products are captured in standardized formats for quick assimilation into current models, and it features control algorithms allowing for advanced mission profiles, including sensor reactive control.