Hyperspectral Imaging UAV

We propose to develop a fully functional, low-cost, lightweight, and low-power spectral imaging system UAV (Unmanned Autonomous Vehicles, aka drones) that can be used to inspect crop conditions (over/under watering, nutrients, readiness of crops for harvesting, crop stress due to pests) for "precision agriculture." It can also be of use for studies of algal blooms in the ocean, invasive aquatic weeds in lakes, and ocean color studies. By imaging upward it can also be used to monitor the generation of greenhouse gases such as methane over a field of interest. The project will involve remote sensing, sensor technology development and applications, and UAV utilization and control. The goal will be to substitute low-cost MEMS technology (MEMS-FPI detector and navigation) for high-cost spectral imaging cameras. By flying a tunable single-pixel detector in formation over a field of interest, the cost of hyperspectral imaging can become affordable for farmers and other consumers.