CopterSonde Weather UAS: Survival Analysis and Considerations for Prolonged Operational Implementation

The utilization of small uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) for vertical atmospheric sampling has become a critical tool in modern meteorology. These systems, however, must navigate severe weather conditions, including extreme winds, placing significant stress on propulsion electronics and structural integrity. Within this context, the study presents an exhaustive characterization of the CopterSonde Weather UAS, with a focus on wear, aging, and performance limits of the platform. Utilizing data from several field campaigns in the past few years, this study provides an in-depth investigation into CopterSonde performance degradation over time and even incidents caused by unforeseen defects. The analysis led to the development of robust protocols and failsafe features, aimed at minimizing potential failures or damage. This research highlights the critical importance of understanding the operational limits of standard UAS within the specific atmospheric conditions for which they are designed. Despite advancements in battery and aviation technology, these platforms often operate close to their limits, necessitating a thorough comprehension of design intricacies. The insights from this study serve as a vital call to weather UAS developers to ensure rigorous evaluation and understanding of their products to deliver reliable and resilient solutions in the market.