UAV imaging with low-cost multispectral imaging system for precision agriculture applications

Abstract

We report on UAV(unmanned aerial vehicle)-based imaging missions over rice and corn fields in Isabela province in the Philippines. Spectral reflectance sensors were deployed for ground truthing, while aerial imagery were produced from RGB and NIR-retrofitted cameras. The ground truth sensors function as calibration points for extending the measurements over the whole imaged field. UAV-based missions deliver the high resolution and spatial scope required of imagery targeting mixed cropping regimes and multiple-farmer plots that have differing starting dates. The ledger-based monitoring systems currently employed by local government units to monitor and manage regional agriculture can be improved by such UAV imagery.