Project Objectives

• To implement an observational system based on Autonomous Unmanned Aerial Vehicles.
• To determine the current state and monitor future changes in atmospheric and earth surface conditions in Cyprus and in the eastern Mediterranean.
• To establish Cyprus internationally at the forefront of environmental monitoring and observation.
• To create opportunities for significant Research and Development in the public and private sector in Cyprus.

Scientific Objectives

Acquisition of data on the 3D structure and characteristics of the lower part of the atmosphere (up to ca. 5km):

• Meteorological parameters.
• Radiative fluxes.
• Concentrations of atmospheric trace components.
• Aerosols and cloud particles.
• Assessment of atmospheric dynamics.

Various 2D properties of the Earth’s surface

• Land and ocean surface properties and topography.
• Contaminant deposits.
• Marine biology.
• Vegetation and land-use properties.
• Ocean currents and waves.
• Archeological artifacts and structures.

Technological Milestones

• Specification of major design characteristics and platform procurement.
• Definition and design of platform payload (measurement modules and their components.
• Miniaturization of existing instrumentation.
• Payload integration.
• Design and test of data acquisition infrastructure.
• Test- and verification missions of platforms.
• Specification of procedures for operational missions.
• Operational employment of APAESO for surveying and monitoring.