Secure Wireless Data Collection for First Responders Using Uncrewed Aircraft Systems

This proposal aims to revolutionize wildfire response by developing a secure wireless data collection system using Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS). ​ The innovation addresses NASA's technical need for nontraditional aviation operations in wildfire response by enhancing situational awareness, improving coordination, and enabling efficient data transport in challenging environments. ​ The proposed system leverages mobile-mesh communications networks to enable UAS to share state information, track each other, and route mission-critical data to remote decision-makers. ​ This includes real-time mission and operation data transmission from UAS and ground-based IoT devices. ​ The funding will be used to achieve several technical objectives, including identifying first responder missions and stakeholder needs, determining data requirements, identifying suitable radios, documenting alternative network implementation methods, and developing network performance metrics. ​ Additionally, the project will involve writing software to collect state data, conducting flight tests to determine UAS performance characteristics, developing simulations for network operations, and demonstrating data transport capabilities. ​ The target markets for this innovation include government agencies and public safety organizations such as fire departments, emergency management agencies, law enforcement agencies, and disaster response teams. ​ By providing a secure and reliable airborne network for low-latency data transport, the system aims to improve strategic planning, resource allocation, and situational awareness, ultimately enhancing the safety and efficiency of wildfire response operations. ​ This proposal directly addresses NASA's need for innovative technologies to improve wildland fire management through enhanced data collection, processing, and communication networks.