Evaluating sensors for snow avalanche monitoring on Unmanned Aircraft Systems : Findings from Andøya, Norway, April 16-18, 2018

Abstract

The NPRA sponsored a two day field demonstration in April 2018 in Andøya, Norway to evaluate the usability of sensors on UASs for snow avalanche monitoring.

The test found that output from ground penetrating radar (GPR) on UAS could identify snow layers. Raw GPR output was challenging to interpret on site, but post-processed data proved to be useful. The GPR was also able to identify buried vehicles and humans but again this output worked best with post-processing.

The UAS industry and airborne sensor industry is growing rapidly and the NPRA should continue to explore their capabilities. Regulatory issues will need to be reviewed to confirm that future use is according to the regulations.