Project Proposal

Introduction

The research for the project will focus on the use and functionality of the thermal sensor. The thermal sensor does not produce true temperature readings for ground surfaces. I hope through the collection of in situ temperature data from various surfaces on the ground immediately after the flight will allow calibration of the temperatures from the imagery. The main objective for the project will be to observe temperature changes of various surfaces throughout the day.  The research project will apply to future studies for applied agriculture land management. Observing surface temperatures for various land covers will add to the knowledge of land managers.

Study Area

The project study area will take place on property east of Fall Creek, WI.  The area has a variety of surfaces including, house, blacktop driveway, no-till garden, prairie grass field, conventionally tilled farm field, and maintained lawn.

Methods

The project will have the researchers collecting imagery and temperature readings at 5 different times of day.  The flight times will be as follows:

• Sunrise
• 8-10 am (Variation depending on sunrise time)
• Noon
• 2-4 pm (Variation depending on sunset time)
• Sunset

Before the flights occur the researchers will layout and survey locations to obtain temperature readings from various surfaces. The surface temperatures will be collected using an infrared thermometer. 

The process for all 5 flights will be the same. After preparing the UAS for flight the researcher will collect temperature readings from all of the monitoring locations. The flight will be conducted immediately following the collection of the temperature readings.

Discussion

The observations I am most looking forward to seeing are the differences between the various vegetation types on the property. Research has shows bare soil to have a considerably higher temperature compared to non-tilled soil with some form of cover crop or mulch. The temperature variation has an effect on the moisture contained with in the soil thus impacting the ability for plants to grow and thrive. I believe the results will show a noticeable temperature difference between the maintained lawn, garden, and prairie grass field.  Additionally, the amount the temperature increases throughout the day will display interesting qualities about the various surfaces.

Conclusions