Use of a Dropsonde Sensor Module as a UAV Measurement Platform

Radiosondes and dropsondes have traditionally been used to measure profiles of the atmosphere with fast response pressure, temperature, and humidity sensors. It seems a natural extension to consider the use of these sensors on UAV technology for controlled flight measurements.

This poster introduces the RSS421 dropsonde module and explores its potential uses as a sensor for UAV measurements. The RSS421 consists of the same sensors used in the RS41-SGP radiosonde and RD41 dropsonde. These sensors include a platinum thermistor, Humicap capacitive humidity sensor, and Barocap silicon pressure sensor.

In addition, we discuss some challenges associated with using a sensor on UAV platforms, including how to account for interactions between the UAV and the sensor, and how to maintain the accuracy of the sensor across multiple flights.