What are the top-rated drones with thermal imaging cameras for aerial geological surveys?

When looking for drones with thermal imaging cameras for aerial geological surveys, some of the top-rated options include the DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual, FLIR Duo Pro R, and Yuneec H520. These drones provide high-quality thermal imaging capabilities, allowing for precise and detailed aerial surveys of geological landscapes. With their advanced technology and features, these drones are highly recommended for professionals in the geological surveying field. Choosing a drone with thermal imaging capability can greatly enhance the accuracy and efficiency of your aerial surveys for geological purposes.

A thermal camera captures and create an image of an object by using infrared radiation emitted from the object in a process that is called thermal imaging. The created image represents the temperature of the object.

Thermal cameras use infrared technology to detect and measure thermal energy emitted by objects. Thermal cameras are essentially infrared cameras that convert infrared radiation (heat) emitted from objects into electronic signals, which are then processed to produce thermal images or thermograms. Thermal imaging technology operates in different parts of the infrared spectrum, which is divided into near-infrared (near-IR), mid-infrared (mid-IR), and far-infrared (far-IR) wavelengths. The cameras mainly operate in the mid-IR to far-IR range, as these wavelengths are emitted by objects at temperatures encountered in everyday environments and industrial applications.

Infrared thermography is currently in demand, and when talking about drone operation , it is used for electrical poles inspection to detect hotspot, also used by firemen to detect fire hotspot, and by rescue team to detect human hotspot who is lost in jungle, just for example of applications.

Thermal imaging, also known as infrared thermography, is a technology used to capture and visualize the infrared radiation emitted by objects based on their temperature. 1.Infrared Radiation 2.Thermal Cameras 3.Temperature Measurement 4.Resolution 5.Color Palettes 6.Applications in Geological Surveys 7.Integration with Drones: Drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras can capture aerial thermal data over large areas quickly and efficiently. By flying over terrain of interest, drones can collect thermal images that can be processed and analyzed to identify thermal anomalies and geological features for further investigation.

DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual: The Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual is equipped with both a visual camera and a thermal imaging camera. It features a FLIR thermal sensor with a resolution of 160x120 pixels and a temperature measurement range of -10°C to 400°C. The compact size and portability of the Mavic 2 make it suitable for aerial surveys in various terrains.

There are a few drones that are capable of providing this, so I'll break down a top 3, but there are also some software options to choose from too. Drones: Matrice 350 RTK: Great drone platform for multiple payloads, but you need to buy the sensors seperately. Matrice 30T: Big drone, built-in thermal camera and versatile. Mavic 3 Thermal: Small drone, ideal for keeping in a vehicle. Payloads for Matrice 350: Zenmuse H20T: Great thermal system for the M350. Also worth looking at H20N as the infrared can sometimes be more detailed. Software: FLIR Tools: Not used this myself but heard some good things. DJI Terra: Supports thermal data processing, good for mapping, and 3D modelling. Pix4D: 2D maps and 3D models from thermal datasets.

Drones equipped with thermal technology are highly adaptable for geological surveys. They excel in mapping faults, monitoring volcanoes, and exploring potential oil and gas deposits. Their capacity to detect temperature variations makes them perfect for pinpointing hot springs and geothermal areas. Geologists benefit greatly from drones as they collect thermal data without physical contact, especially in challenging or hazardous terrains.

Analyzing the data you've collected from thermal imaging with your drone is crucial. You'll need software specifically designed to process thermal data, turning it into useful geological insights. Consider drones that work seamlessly with advanced analytical tools. These tools can help you visualize and measure thermal differences across your survey zone, giving you deeper insights into the geological characteristics you're studying.

The Quantum Systems Trinity F90+ paired with the Qube 240 sensor, provides long-endurance fixed-wing flights for high-precision thermal imaging over large geological areas. For a desert geomorphological survey, we used the Trinity F90+ to map expansive sand dunes, where the Qube 240’s wide field of view captured subtle thermal gradients indicating sub-surface water channels The Autel EVO II Dual 640T integrates a thermal sensor with high-resolution visual imaging for precise geological surveys & temperature measurements. For a volcanic risk assessment, we employed the EVO II Dual 640T to monitor active vents. The thermal imaging revealed vent temperatures & surrounding lava flows, offering real-time insights that guided evacuation planning

These drones offer different features, capabilities, and price points, so it's essential to evaluate your specific requirements and budget when selecting the most suitable option for aerial geological surveys. Additionally, always ensure compliance with local regulations and obtain necessary permits before conducting drone operations for geological surveys.