GGY 429 - Aerial Drone Applications in Geoscience

This course will provide an introduction to the various applications of unmanned aerial systems (UAS, also known as drones) in the geosciences field and will consist of four main modules. The modules will be structured to begin with an introduction to remote sensing and photogrammetry, followed by basics of UAS regulatory frameworks, then we will dedicate at least 40% of the class period to field data collection using small UAVs and will wrap up the course with an introduction to UAV-collected data processing using state of the art software and processing tools. Apart from understanding what it takes to fly a drone both from a technical, applied perspective, as well as from a regulatory lens, the course will provide students with an opportunity to consider for both the opportunities and risks/pitfalls presented by the use of UAV technology.

Credit Hours: 2

Prerequisite Courses: GGY 281 or GGY 322, or consent of instructor.
Course Repeatability: Course may not be repeated.

Click here for the Spring 2025 Class Schedule.