Description: An aerial sensor is a device mounted on aerial vehicles, such as drones or airplanes, designed to collect data from an elevated perspective. These sensors can include cameras, temperature sensors, humidity sensors, pressure sensors, and other devices that allow for the capture of information about the environment. Their main feature is the ability to operate at altitudes that are inaccessible to ground sensors, enabling them to obtain a broad and detailed view of extensive areas. Aerial sensors are essential in applications such as environmental monitoring, precision agriculture, natural resource management, and security. Thanks to their integration with IoT (Internet of Things) technologies, these devices can transmit data in real-time to analysis platforms, facilitating informed decision-making. The relevance of aerial sensors lies in their ability to enhance efficiency and effectiveness across various industries, allowing for faster and more accurate data collection than traditional methods.
History: Aerial sensors have their roots in aerial photography, which began to develop in the late 19th century. With technological advancements, especially during and after World War II, cameras mounted on airplanes were used for military and geographical information gathering. In recent decades, the advent of drones has revolutionized this field, allowing for the miniaturization of sensors and real-time data collection. Since the 2000s, the use of aerial sensors has significantly expanded due to the integration of IoT technologies, enabling more sophisticated and accessible applications.
Uses: Aerial sensors are used in a variety of applications, including precision agriculture, where they help monitor crop health and optimize resource use. They are also essential in disaster management, allowing for damage assessment and response planning. In the environmental sector, they are used for monitoring air and water quality, as well as for wildlife and flora surveillance. Additionally, in the security sector, aerial sensors are used for surveillance and border control.
Examples: A practical example of the use of aerial sensors is crop monitoring using drones equipped with multispectral cameras, which allow farmers to identify areas that require specific attention. Another case is the use of aerial sensors in wildfire management, where they are used to map affected areas and assess damage. In the security sector, drones equipped with thermal sensors are used by law enforcement to detect suspicious activities in hard-to-reach areas.
