Use of a drone equipped with microthermal sensors to estimate the quality of the atmosphere for astronomical observation

Abstract

A drone was used to obtain thermal profiles to estimate atmospheric turbulence for the purposes of astronomical observation. The first 150m of height were studied in two areas in the southeast of the Iberian Peninsula. The preliminary results have validated the use of drones as a suitable means of transport for obtaining microthermal measurements. We have also assessed the influence of the planetary boundary layer on the quality of the image for astronomical purposes. In future research, we intend to check these measurements with fixed microthermal sensors installed in meteorological towers.