We are considering a variety of payload modules. While some of these have been successively deployed by other UAV groups others will require development with our technological partners.

Module M1: Core module and data acquisition

The core module is the backbone of the AUAV’s payloads. It will include an embedded controller, processor, memory device and integrated compact flashcard. The core module provides signal/data connectivity to all other instrumentation modules, configurable power supply per installed module, asynchronous and synchronous sampling from about 30 channels and peripheral communication.

Module M2: Meteorology

This payload package combines three types of sensors for measuring temperature, relative humidity and barometric pressure. A wind vector sensor can also be implemented in the same module. A dual sensor system will be employed for temperature.

Module M3: Radiation

Two different sensors will be used, (a) a broadband global and diffuse solar radiation sensor (pyranometer) and (b) a narrowband radiometer.

 
Broadband (left) and visible (right) energy sensor on board the Manta-B UAV (Courtesy of Center for Clouds, Chemistry and Climate, Scripps Institution of Oceanography/UCSD).

Module M4: Aerosol / cloud droplet

This module will be specifically designed for measurements relating to aerosol and cloud particles.

Three sensors will be integrated:

1. Condensation particle counter (CPC)
2. Cloud condensation nuclei counter (CCN)
3. Cloud droplet probe (CDP).

Examples of miniaturized aerosol and cloud droplet probes on board the Manta-B UAV (Courtesy of Center for Clouds, Chemistry and Climate, Scripps Institution of Oceanography/UCSD).

Module M5: Nano-sensors

This module will enable vertical profiling of Ozone (O3), Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Volatile Organic Compound (VOC). For the three types of measurements, commercially available instruments will be used and modified by repackaging the sensors and electronics in compact and lightweight enclosures.

Module M6: Topography

A laser altimeter that will be used for combined surface topography purposes.

Module M7: Spectral imaging

This module will host (a) a hyperspectral imager and (b) an infrared imager.  The infrared sensor should be combined with visible sensor (EO) in a single dome shape enclosure that will be fitted below the fuselage.

Module M8: Radio Frequency Sounding

The module, which is still to be considered tentative for this first four-year phase of APAESO, will encompass a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) for environmental monitoring and ground-resource mapping.