Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

The Schmidt Ocean Institute provides support for drone or Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) operations by offering rental systems for approved research projects conducted aboard the R/V Falkor.

The R/V Falkor can operate as a scientific platform for a variety of UAV systems. These technologies, also called Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), help researchers collect atmospheric samples, expand the range of scientific observations, and gather aerial photographs and videos while the vessel continues other research activities.

The UAVs supported by Falkor cover a wide range of sizes and capabilities. Small consumer-level quadcopters are often used for filming outreach content and documenting expeditions, while larger gasoline-powered aircraft can carry scientific instruments, collect environmental data, and travel more than 100 kilometers during a single flight.

What Is a UAV?

An Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), also known as an uncrewed aerial vehicle, unmanned aircraft, or simply a drone, is an aircraft that operates without a person onboard. A UAV is part of a larger Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), which includes the aircraft itself, a ground control station, and communication equipment that allows operators to manage the vehicle.

UAVs can function in different ways depending on their design and level of automation. Some are controlled directly by human pilots from the ground, known as remotely piloted aircraft, while others use automated systems such as autopilot technology. The most advanced UAVs can complete flights with a high degree of independence and require little or no direct human control.

UAV Operations on Falkor

A UAV system such as the L3 Harris HQ-90 takes off from the flight deck of the R/V Falkor. This aircraft can remain airborne for up to 12 hours, beginning its mission with a vertical launch before transitioning into forward flight.

What Can a UAV Do?

On the R/V Falkor, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles are used to collect information about the ocean surface and atmosphere while also capturing aerial images and video footage. These systems provide scientists with a powerful way to observe large areas, monitor environmental conditions, and gather data that would be difficult to obtain through traditional methods.

Compared with aircraft carrying human pilots, UAVs were originally developed for tasks considered too repetitive, hazardous, or challenging for people. Although drones were first widely used in military operations, their applications have expanded rapidly into civilian fields, including scientific research, environmental monitoring, mapping, and infrastructure inspections.