News

RIEGL BathyCopter in unique mission in Oregon

(07.06.2017)

Teaming with experts from RIEGL, Quantum Spatial, Inc. was recently involved in an exciting new test of RIEGL’s newest sUAS technology innovation for hydrographic applications – the RIEGL BathyCopter – on three different stream restoration sites in Oregon.

The BathyCopter is a unique, small unmanned aerial system (sUAS) equipped with a green wavelength laser designed for generating depth profiles of inland rivers and lakes. Companion flights were conducted using the popular RIEGL VUX-1 survey grade sensor to collect highly detailed terrestrial data within the immediate riparian zone.  This sensor combination allowed our team to create a seamless 3D topographic and bathymetric surface model for each site in amazingly high resolution.  

The goal was to evaluate the BathyCopter’s performance and practicality in providing baseline elevation data to support hydrologic and hydraulic (H&H) modeling, habitat assessments, and other riverine applications. The series of sUAS missions was successfully conducted over three days and included involvement of several Quantum Spatial client stakeholders. This project illustrates QSI’s commitment to providing new and innovative solutions for clients in need of detailed mapping of inland waters. Quantum Spatial and RIEGL will present the preliminary results of these missions at the 18th Annual JALBTCX Airborne Coastal Mapping and Charting Technical Workshop in Savannah, GA on June 7, at 3:30 pm.

Original Post: Quantum Spatial Blog