Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) can revolutionize NOAA's ability to monitor and understand the global environment. There is a key information gap today between instruments on Earth's surface and on satellites - UAS can bridge that gap. Operated by remote pilots and ranging in wingspan from less than six feet to more than 115 feet, UAS can also collect data from dangerous or remote areas, such as the poles, oceans, wildlands, volcanic islands, and wildfires. Better data and observations improve understanding and forecasts, save lives, property, and resources, advancing NOAA's mission goals.
NOAA's UAS work draws on expertise from industry, academic, and government partners. This broad coalition seeks to apply technologies used in national defense - including high- and low-altitude UAS, communication technologies, and instruments - to benefit the global environment.
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