In yet another example of non-military application of drones, NASA researchers investigate the gases in a volcanic plume in Costa Rica with small electric-powered planes. These planes are, in fact, repurposed military drones being applied to the benefit of mankind.
The full story, with maps, graphics, and more photos is at:
http://www.nasa.gov/topics/earth/earthmonth/volcanic-plume-uavs.html
Comments
I'm interested in this plane.Who can say where the center of gravity?
NASA has used UAS platforms in many research projects. This is yet another positive use the Govt. can show, and we all can follow.
Another NASA / NOAA project http://spyplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/MLB_AUVSI_NASA_Rose... :
MLB UAV Provide High Resolution Imagery of Seagrass and Coral Reef Biomes
Yiduo, that is one of the DragonEyes that NASA's team flew in Costa Rica.
I was lucky to see them in action.
Hi Alfred,
Can you tell me where did you get it? I'd like to have one as well.
I was there:
Wow a history channel airframe! Behold the Dragoneye.
There was an RC copy made in China or the like but I can't for the life of me remember who made it.
Often thought about making a version of my own so have studied it ;-)
http://www.avinc.com/uas/small_uas/dragon_eye/