Airborne Research and Innovation

Application areas

The applications of airborne sensing are extremely diverse and are increasing all the time as new technologies become available.

The applications of airborne sensing are extremely broad, both with the geosciences and beyond,  but a number of the areas in which we commonly work are briefly outlined below. Please do contact us to find out more or to discuss how we might support your research.

Land Atmosphere Interactions

An aircraft  flying over a research tower
Combining high frequency meteorological and chemistry measurements we are able to study the processes that exchange energy, moisture and trace gases between the land surface, vegetation and the atmosphere.

Forest Health and Productivity

Forest trees viewed from above
Airborne sensing provides a means to study the health and productivity of forests at very high spatial and temporal resolution, and to monitor the impacts of human activity on these vital ecosystems.

Land Surface Dynamics and Geomorphology

contour map of a gorge in iceland
Airborne sensing provides an exceptional tool set for studying the changing landscape and the processes that shape it.

3D Imaging

A 3D point cloud of Griffin Forest, near Aberfeldy, using images acquired by light aircraft
We are able to create detailed 3D models and point clouds of landscapes, vegetation and architecture using both laser-scanning (LiDAR) and photogrammetric tools.

Atmospheric Monitoring

View from an airplane cockpit in the air, showing skies, green landscape and a rainbow
With in-situ gas analysers and samples collected in flasks or bags, we are able to support studies of regional atmospheric chemistry and air mass evolution.

Changing Ecosystems

A flux tower in north wales viewed from an airplane
Across the world, natural ecosystems are being subjected to change in various ways, be it through direct change in land use or changes in local climate. Airborne sensors provide a unique set of tools to help study these changes.

Coastal and Marine Systems

Seal colony at Holy Island viewed from above
Our manned and unmanned aircraft can be used to study and monitor our changing coastlines and the life they support.

Precision Agriculture

A drone flying above an agricultural field for research
Airborne sensing provides new tools for precision agriculture, reducing costs and environmental impacts.