3 June 2025 14h00-14h30
Karel Desnijder (CISS)
Atmospheric characterization is crucial for optimizing laser propagation and enhancing the performance of optical systems in open-air environments. Traditional measurement methods often struggle to capture distributed atmospheric parameters, especially over slant paths and uneven terrain. In this work, we present a prototype system using a swarm of lightweight, low-cost drones equipped with integrated environmental sensors to enable real-time atmospheric profiling. Each drone carries sensors for temperature, pressure, humidity, aerosols, and wind measurements, with data transmission handled via the Cube Orange flight controller and MAVLink protocol. To address disturbances such as propeller downwash, a differential temperature probe and wind calibration procedures were implemented. Field tests at Brasschaat Airfield and the Enghien model airplane club demonstrated the feasibility of this approach, while also highlighting challenges in sensor placement, environmental influence, and data integrity. These results underscore the potential of drone-based atmospheric sensing, while ongoing work focuses on improving the prototype's robustness, refining turbulence measurements, and optimizing sensor protection for future operational use.
Teams link will be communicated soon.