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UAVs Will Study Californian Smog
Roland Piquepaille writes "The California Energy Commission is funding a research effort named CAPPS, short for California AUAV Air Pollution Profiling Study. CAPPS will use autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles (AUAVs) to gather meteorological data as the aircraft fly through clouds over Southern California. The goal is to study smog and its consequences as well as better understand the sources of air pollution. The first flights started in April 2008 and data collection will continue until January 2009. But read more for additional references and photos of these autonomous unmanned aircraft."
The goal is to study smog and its consequences as well as better understand the sources of air pollution.
Airplanes?
more crazies seeing UFOs
I assume it's primarily a cost type thing. Flying 4 small automated UAVs is probably cheaper than even 1 manned craft.
There are other possible reasons too. At their size, it's relatively easy to fly the UAVs at low alititudes (like 1 or 2k feet). They are going to be quiet (unlike a small Cessna) when close to the ground. They could be run 'round the clock, and if they can hold a charge (or they put solar panels on 'em) they could stay up for 12+ hours at a time.
I can see some real good points for why you may want a UAV.
Comment forecast: Bits of genius surrounded by a sea of mediocrity.
They're cheaper to operate, they can stay aloft longer, and they pollute less. What's not to like?
You must be GNU here.
No folly is more costly than the folly of intolerant idealism. - Winston Churchill
Pay no attention to the government aircraft constantly above your heads. They are only there to study smog.
I'm an American. I love this country and the freedoms that we used to have.
these uavs are using a 2-stroke reciprocating gasoline engine
http://www.acrtucson.com/UAV/manta/index.htm