Drones are now routinely used for collecting aerial imagery and creating digital elevation models (DEM). Lightweight thermal sensors provide another payload option for generation of very high resolution aerial thermal orthophotos. This technology allows for the rapid, safe and cost-effective survey of thermal areas, often present in inaccessible or dangerous terrain.

Temperature calibration of the imagery allowed estimation of heat loss from thermal areas. Aerial photos and digital elevation models were also produced for these areas, with ground resolution and horizontal position error comparable to commercially produced LIDAR and aerial imagery obtained from manned aircraft. Our results show that thermal imagery collected by drones has the potential to become a key tool in geothermal science, including geological, geochemical and geophysical surveys, environmental baseline and monitoring studies, geotechnical studies and civil works.