A birds-eye-view to crop health through unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in agriculture

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)/ Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), better known as Drones are unmanned aircraft, which are remotely controlled or which can fly autonomously. They are associated with cameras, GPS, and some other sensors, which collect relevant data. Drones in agriculture collect visual images through its camera and the sensors expand the utility of the whole system. Drones collect such information about the crop growth and crop environment, which cannot be observed by farmers’ eyes in the visible spectrum, such as a subtle change in moisture content of the soil, crop health, nutrient status of soil, stress condition, crop diseases, etc. (Anonymous 2018). Mapping and imaging capabilities of drone platforms can be used throughout the whole crop season to monitor crop health and collect other necessary data for better crop production and improved productivity. UAS and advanced image data analysis systems are great tools for the agriculture sector. With the booming of drone industries and image data analysis technology, the use of more appropriate sensors, high-resolution cameras and much-improved data processing systems are being included along with huge concerns on optimization of cost and maximization of utility. Drones inform farmers with more accurate data and help them to maximize yield to their natural limits