Division of Geographic Analysis

Aerial Sensing and Imaging

Understanding the large scale features and trends in our environment requires a bird's eye view.

CAESER is often tasked with producing assessments and models that cover large geographical areas. Accomplishing those tasks requires collecting vast amounts of data and can be extremely time-consuming. These tasks, however, can be quickly and efficiently performed using remote sensors and uncrewed air vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as a drones.

In 2021, the Center for Advanced Sensors merged with CAESER to become the Division of Geographic Analysis’ Aerial Sensing and Imaging. This merger expanded CAESER’s capabilities by adding not only remote sensing knowledge and experience, but also a fleet of UAVs.

The new group preserves its previous focus on the exploration of remote sensing applied to the military and agricultural space but can provide customized airborne remote sensing services. This empowers CAESER with enhanced data collection capabilities that can be applied in a compressed time scale.

Task Oriented Sensors

  • Select commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) sensor or build custom
  • COTS sensors in inventory:
    • Visual
    • Near infrared
    • Long wave infrared
    • Hyperspectral
    • Acoustical

Mission Planning and Logistics

  • Design flight plans optimized for research goals
  • Transport and deploy all hardware
  • Collect data

Current Mission Capabilities

  • Feature Detection and Mapping
  • Vegetation assessments

Dr. Eddie Jacobs' Research in a Nutshell