Low-Cost Photogrammetry Platform

The proposed study will evaluate the feasibility of adapting medium format metric camera systems for aerial photogrammetry from an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platform. The new generation of UAVs have the capacity to carry medium format (up to 5 cm x 7 cm) metric cameras suitable for precision photogrammetry. These platforms also offer automonous operations and simplified takeoff and landing options that minimize pilot skill requirements. This development will reduce the cost of photogrammetric monitoring of large structures in remote regions. We plan to apply the system to the study of sea ice deformation. A UAV would allow cost-effective, repetitive imaging of rafting, ridging and lead formation associated with floe scale interactions of polar sea ice. Photogrammetric techniques will allow quantitative measurements of horizontal displacements associated with these deformations. Stereophotogrammetry offers the potential to map the sea ice topography. The proposed work will include an evaluation of development requirements to provide the vibration isolation, tilt stabilization, enviromental controls, and motion compensation required for aerial photogrammetry and stereophotogrammetry. Evaluations of flight planning, image processing requirements, and Arctic logistics will also be carried out.