On The Use Of Unmanned Aerial Systems (Uas) In The Exploration Geophysics

Unmanned Aerial Systems are used in numerous civil and military applications. Their application in the geophysical exploration is a new research area. In the frame of research projects, we have carried out magnetic and VLF measurements using the Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) B1-100 developed by Aeroscout in Lucerne, Switzerland. We choose this UAS because of his payload of 15 kg which is necessary, especially for the VLF device. The main objective is to test the suitability of an UAS for magnetic and VLF surveys. After detailed noise tests, the distance between the geophysical sensor and the UAS was determined and a suspension system was developed. Magnetic and VLF measurements were carried out on buried man-made objects in the ground. The data gained by using the UAS were compared with ground magnetic and VLF measurements and an excellent correspondence was achieved. 3-component VLF magnetic data were processed and transfer functions were determined. They were then interpreted by 2D inversion calculations resulting reliable conductivity models.