The Role of Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) in Volcanic Research: Opportunities, Applications, and Challenges

 

 

 

In recent years, the rapid advancement and widespread accessibility of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), commonly referred to as drones, have significantly transformed various scientific disciplines, including volcanology. UAS are remotely piloted aircraft that may take the form of fixed-wing models, rotorcraft (e.g., helicopters), or multirotor platforms.

A particularly noteworthy subset of these systems is the small unmanned aerial system (sUAS), which is characterized by its compact size, relative affordability, and operational simplicity. These attributes have contributed to the proliferation of sUAS in both commercial and research settings, with units readily available through conventional retail channels.

The use of sUAS in volcanic research has gained considerable attention due to their ability to operate in environments that are often difficult or hazardous for human researchers to access. Volcanic terrains are typically remote, topographically complex, and prone to sudden and dangerous changes due to eruptions, gas emissions, and landslides. In such settings, sUAS serve as valuable tools capable of collecting timely, high-resolution data while minimizing the risks to human safety. Their small size and lightweight design make them highly portable and suitable for fieldwork in areas with limited infrastructure. Furthermore, their ability to take off and land vertically (in the case of multirotor systems), combined with minimal space requirements for operation, enhances their utility in rugged terrains.

One of the primary applications of sUAS in volcanic environments is aerial mapping, which enables researchers to generate high-resolution topographic models using photogrammetric techniques. These models are crucial for monitoring changes in volcanic morphology over time, particularly in the lead-up to or aftermath of eruptive events. In addition, sUAS are employed for thermal imaging, which provides insight into subsurface heat fluxes and identifies potential zones of magma ascent. This technique has been instrumental in detecting thermal anomalies that may precede eruptions.

sUAS have also proven valuable in conducting gas emission measurements, particularly for volcanic gases such as carbon dioxide (CO₂) and sulfur dioxide (SO₂). Equipped with specialized sensors, these drones can fly into volcanic plumes to quantify gas concentrations and fluxes, contributing to a better understanding of degassing processes and their implications for eruption forecasting. Moreover, sUAS facilitate sample collection, magnetic surveys, and slope stability assessments, further broadening their relevance in geophysical and geochemical investigations.

Despite their numerous advantages, sUAS are not without limitations. A major constraint is their relatively short flight time, which can be significantly affected by environmental conditions, especially wind speed. Their structural components, often composed of plastic and lightweight materials, may also be vulnerable to degradation when exposed to the high temperatures prevalent in active volcanic settings. These factors necessitate careful planning and risk assessment prior to deployment.

Technological advancements are continuously addressing many of these challenges. Improvements in battery life, material durability, payload capacity, and sensor integration are expected to enhance the reliability and functionality of sUAS in extreme environments. Nevertheless, it is essential for researchers and operators to remain cognizant of legal and regulatory frameworks governing the use of UAS. Compliance with national and local aviation laws is critical, particularly in sensitive or restricted airspaces that may coincide with volcanic regions.

In conclusion, sUAS represent a transformative tool for modern volcanology, enabling safe, efficient, and high-quality data collection in environments that would otherwise be inaccessible or dangerous. As technology continues to evolve, the role of sUAS in volcanic research is poised to expand, offering new opportunities for monitoring, modeling, and understanding volcanic systems.

 References

Karbach, N., Bobrowski, N., & Hoffmann, T. (2022). Observing volcanoes with drones: Studies of volcanic plume chemistry with ultralight sensor systems

James, M. R., & Diefenbach, A. K. (2020). Volcano monitoring with small unmanned aerial systems