1 Optimizing UAS Multispectral Data Collection and

This paper describes the enhancements made to a system capable of capturing multispectral and position data that is processed into information useful to agriculturalists. The system consists of a digital imaging payload integrated into a small Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS). A commercially available multispectral camera and GPS unit are packaged along with supporting components to create a light-weight and inexpensive payload. A small UAS is used to fly the payload over a field; the generated data can then be processed and delivered to today’s precision agriculture community. Site specific crop management is achievable if the captured multispectral images can be successfully mosaiced and geo-referenced. Image overlap, capture rate, and clarity determine whether or not collected images can be used to create an accurate representation of vegetation health. GPS stamps, indicating where particular images were captured, can be used to enhance the spatial accuracy of the rendered mosaic. The final product takes the form of a digital map depicting relative crop health within a field. Nomenclature α = field of view (height) β = field of view (width) θ = top field of view angle (height) ω = bottom field of view angle (height) φ = left field of view angle (width) λ = right field of view angle (width) I