Joseph Klang Geography Capstone Seminar 401 April 13, 2015 Terrain Analysis Used To Aid in Search and Rescue Missions in Texas

 How can terrain analysis aid in the use of unmanned aerial systems(UAS) for search and rescue purposes?  Human-Environment tradition of Geography Research Question

 A initial probable search area for a UAS to gather imagery Desired Results  Develop a Hindrance Index to measure difficulty of travel  Perform the path distance tool to determine difficulty of terrain  Perform the cost path tool to develop a probable route Objectives Project Description

 RPFlight Systems  Mr. Gene Robinson  Specialize in using UAS to aid in search and rescue processes  UAS have revolutionized the search and rescue process  Large areas covered in less time  Search areas not accessible by ground teams  Lack a predictability model  Factoring in terrain of the environment Project Background

Hindrance Model  Results still to come

Search Area

Path Distance Results

Least-Cost Path Results

 Factoring in terrain can be hugely beneficial  Incorporating GIS increases efficiency  Develop accurate initial probable search areas Conclusion

Questions & Discussion