Unmanned Aircraft Flying
Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) technology can go where no scientist has
ever gone before. Using these remote controlled planes, USGS scientists
will be able to research the most remote and dangerous areas, such as polar
regions, volcanic islands and expansive deserts. Manned aircraft flights
are rarely possible in these areas due to long flight times and hazardous
weather conditions. The USGS has long been known as an authoritative source
of aerial photography and satellite-based imagery. This technology,
developed by the U.S. Army, will allow the USGS to understand landscape
change and conduct wildlife inventories with a level of detail and
precision never before attainable. Details can be found in the USGS
Newsroom. For more information contact Heidi Koontz at
hkoontz@usgs.gov or
(303) 202-4763. (pictures)