This course introduces the sensors onboard Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and how they integrate with platform subsystems, including the accelerometer, Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), and GPS. These core sensors are critical to UAS flight and navigation, but they're just the starting point: a wide variety of sensors are available for UAS payloads, each opening up new applications worth exploring in greater detail.
UAS/Drone Technology: Sensors and Payloads
UAS/Drone Technology: Sensors and Payloads
This course is part of Unmanned Aerial Systems: Fundamentals Specialization
Instructor: Matthew Balazs
What you'll learn
Define a payload and its relationship to a UAS platform, and differentiate between common types of UAS payloads.
Describe how sensors work with the electromagnetic spectrum, and differentiate between active and passive sensors.
List key considerations for sensor and payload selection, and explain how mission goals shape integration choices
Skills you'll gain
Tools you'll learn
Details to know
Shareable certificate
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Assessments
15 assignments
Taught in English
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September 2026
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This course is part of the Unmanned Aerial Systems: Fundamentals Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
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