
DJI Matrice 300 RTK
For more information on drone specifications, refer to https://www.dji.com/matrice-300. Additional imaging cameras include Zenmuse L1 measuring LiDAR and photogrammetry, Zenmuse H20T measuring thermal, Zenmuse H20 measuring photogrammetry, and Micasense RedEdge RX. This also comes with an RTK mobile station.
The DJI Matrice 300 RTK was purchased through the Edge of Space Academy, and I am the steward of this equipment with the responsibility of ensuring it is in good shape to fly for our academy. My procedures for checking out this equipment are the same as those for making my other equipment available. Plus, there are a few extra things that have to happen in order for the university to allow flights to happen and ensure that the equipment is maintained for the Edge of Space Academy.
- A pilot or pilots with an FAA license needs to be identified. They need to have at least three days of training from me in order to fly this equipment. That is because the FAA license does not teach you to fly the drone, but only teaches you the rules of flying. Also, every drone is different, so they need to be familiar with this system, which will also ensure that it is maintained properly and continues to collect high-quality data.
- A flight plan needs to be submitted to the University’s Risk Management at least 10 days prior to the flight(s). This is true even if you are not flying on University property. One of the requirements for flying on university property or being covered by university insurance is to have propeller guards. I can assist users with submitting a flight plan.
- Since a flight plan needs to be submitted at least 10 days prior to flight for the university, I need to be asked if the equipment is available 14 days prior to flight. This allows me to make sure the equipment is ready to go and complete any maintenance necessary. It also allows me to ensure there is enough time to train or refamiliarize the pilot with the equipment, because there are always new software updates or new components.

ASD FieldSpec 4
An ASD FieldSpec 4 that measure reflectance from 400 to 2500 nm with 2151 bands. Additional accessories include, leaf clip, contact probe, 10" spectralon panel, and illuminator. This is used as a field measurement to validate hyperspectral imagery.
This equipment is available for use, but does require at least one day of training to ensure high quality data collection and equipment maintenance.
Trimble DA2
The DA2 GNSS receiver, combined with a Catalyst service subscription, delivers centimeter to sub-meter accuracy to location-enabled Android and iOS field apps and workflows. This GNSS receiver integrates into Survey123 or ArcGIS FieldMaps.
This equipment is available for use, but the user will need to purchase hours from Trimble if they desire centimeter accuracy. We do have an iPad that integrates with the Trimble DA2 and Survey123/ArcGIS FieldMaps that is also available for use.
YSI ProDSS
A handheld ProDSS water quality meter with GPS, depth sensor, conductivity and temperature sensor, nitrate sensor, and total algae-phycocyanin sensor.
This equipment is available for use, but does require at least one day of training to ensure high quality data collection and equipment maintenance.