Landscape Mapping with Drones

In this course students will be introduced to professional drone-based landscape mapping, from image acquisition and advanced data analysis to regulatory compliance. Topics for exploration include drone platforms and sensors, photogrammetry, LiDAR point-cloud processing, image classification techniques, discussions on drone ethics, and FAA regulations. Students will engage in hands-on field and lab work alongside literature review and discussion, a team mapping project with a local organization, and guest lectures from professionals in forestry, agriculture, conservation, and engineering. Upon completion of this course, students will be prepared to independently plan, execute, and analyze a drone mission. (This course includes mandatory field trips.) (GEOG 0251 or GEOG 0252 or GEOG 0261 or instructor approval.)