Real-time atmospheric characterization using drone swarms as sensor platforms

This study investigates the deployment of drone swarms as sensor platforms for the real-time characterization of atmospheric properties, including turbulence, humidity, and aerosols, particularly along slant paths or in challenging environments. Utilizing swarms of sensor-equipped drones allows for the measurement of environmental parameters along specific paths, enabling the acquisition of real-time, localized atmospheric data at various points along these paths. To measure turbulence, the Differential Temperature Method is used, complemented by small, lightweight, off-the-shelf sensors for assessing other atmospheric properties. This approach facilitates a detailed understanding of atmospheric conditions, leveraging the mobility and versatility of drone swarms to gather data in real-time.