Small Unoccupied Aerial Systems (UAS) and Thermal Cameras in Geothermal Exploration and Operational Fields; a Review of UAS Equipment and Case Study at Brady Geothermal Field, Nevada USA

Abstract

Unoccupied Aerial Systems (UAS, drones) are increasingly utilized in geologic and geothermal analysis, commonly used for collection of high-resolution aerial imagery and associated products (e.g., orthorectified photomosaics, digital surface models). Recent advancements in UAS technology, portability, GPS accuracy, price, and diversity of attachments (payloads) have occurred alongside improvements in digital image reconstructions and scope of Federal Aviation Administration regulations, making drones more applicable to geothermal operations. Small UAS are easy to transport and deploy but have limiting factors such as fixed payloads and reduced flight ranges. Larger UAS increase flight efficiency and are capable of interchangeable payload systems but are significantly more expensive and require additional resources to mobilize equipment. Thermal camera payloads, originally intended to aid in search-and-rescue efforts, are now being deployed in geothermal fields to refine surface temperature maps, in both exploration and operational phases of geothermal research. In February of 2024, daytime conventional and nighttime thermal imagery was collected at the Brady geothermal field in Nevada, USA. Brady is an operational field in the Basin and Range that has been producing power since 1992. The survey imaged plant operational infrastructure and geologic features, including uninsulated pipelines and surface manifestations ,at a higher detail than previously possible. These data help support plant operations and troubleshooting, and increase accuracy of geologic mapping of the field. This study reviews UAS equipment, summarizes historic technological advances, and highlights the work completed at Brady. This work serves as a test case for further deployment of UAS across Ormat's operational and exploration fields to improve field work safety, efficiency, and thorough data collection.