The Voss lab uses many different technological applications to describe coral reefs and answer research questions, including molecular biology platforms, specialized diving equipment, and presentations tools. We have been using some pieces of equipment to describe the water conditions on St. Lucie Reef for a while now, such as temperature and salinity data loggers. While we can't be out on the reef sampling at all times, these loggers give us the opportunity to see what happens on the reef on a daily basis. Josh, Courtney, Alycia, and Maureen are out swapping the loggers today so that we can download the data from the past six weeks.
But, there is a new addition to the Voss lab research capabilities: a remote control quadcopter with a high definition camera. Quadcopters have been gaining popularity in the recreational market, but we can also use them to capture aerial photos and videos of research sites and add another layer of understanding about our sites. In particular, we can use a quadcopter to determine the extent of the blackwater flow on the reef during lake discharge events, photograph the location of the reef, and even provide action shots of our lab working in the field.
So, while the rest of the lab is out on this gorgeous day, Michael will be practicing quadcopter flying and aerial videography back at HBOI with a practice quadcopter. Keep an eye out for some new aerial videos and photos that should be coming up on our Flickr!
But, there is a new addition to the Voss lab research capabilities: a remote control quadcopter with a high definition camera. Quadcopters have been gaining popularity in the recreational market, but we can also use them to capture aerial photos and videos of research sites and add another layer of understanding about our sites. In particular, we can use a quadcopter to determine the extent of the blackwater flow on the reef during lake discharge events, photograph the location of the reef, and even provide action shots of our lab working in the field.
So, while the rest of the lab is out on this gorgeous day, Michael will be practicing quadcopter flying and aerial videography back at HBOI with a practice quadcopter. Keep an eye out for some new aerial videos and photos that should be coming up on our Flickr!
