Evaluating the Use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems to Autonomously Download Ground-Based Sensor Data

A data mule is a vehicle used to physically transfer data between locations, providing asynchronous connectivity without the expense of establishing traditional networking solutions (e.g., cellular, mesh, wired broadband, etc.). In remote areas, field personnel often act as "human data mules," retrieving data from ground sensors (e.g., camera traps, data loggers, audio recorders) on foot, which is time-consuming and exposes individuals to safety risks. This paper provides an overview of the novel UAS Data Mule technology as an effective alternative for manual data retrieval of ground-based sensor data used in a broad range of applications including wildlife and environmental monitoring, disaster response, and security.