Aeromagnetic Surveying Using a Simulated Unmanned Aircraft System.

摘要

Carleton University and Sander Geophysics are developing an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) with technologies to create a platform uniquely suited for aeromagnetic surveying. As an early indication of the expected performance of the UAS, a simulated UAS (sUAS) was built. The sUAS is a helicopter suspended T-shaped structure built with the same sensors and the same configuration as the UAS.;The sUAS TMI data shows a higher level of detail than the conventional fixed-wing data, and a similar level of detail to that of the ground survey without any loss in data due to topography and inaccessible areas. The transverse magneto-gradiometer tested by the sUAS was found to adequately measure the gradient of the magnetic field.;An 8.5 km2 area near Plevna, Ontario, was surveyed with the sUAS suspended 50 m above ground. The survey area was chosen on the basis of its complex geological structure. The total magnetic intensity (TMI) data recorded was compared to that obtained during a conventional fixed-wing survey and a ground survey. Data from an experimental transverse magneto-gradiometer was also recorded by the sUAS and analyzed.