Airborne Data Acquisition

By far the largest number of surveys and quantity of data are acquired utilizing fixed-wing aircraft.  The sensor is typically mounted in a tube aft of the aircraft called a stinger to minimize the effect of the aircraft’s magnetic field.

Using a fixed-wing aircraft, large areas can be covered economically and rapidly. Because the measurements are made from the air, issues of land access and the effects of ground clutter are avoided.  EDCON-PRJ has conducted over 100 fixed-wing surveys in North America over the past ten years. Our experience in survey design, acquisition and processing of this data ensures our clients a successful geophysical program. 

Helicopters are used for low-level surveys in terrain that would be impossible to follow in a fixed-wing aircraft. Helicopter surveys are conducted with a magnetometer sensor slung from a long cable below the vehicle, or in a forward- mounted stinger. Although helicopters have significantly higher operating costs than fixed-wing aircraft, our ability to mobilize equipment and aircraft quickly and acquire data efficiently allows for a very good return on the investment for detailed surveys in rugged terrain. 

Most surveys require that the aircraft be flown at a constant altitude above terrain while acquiring data. We conduct fixed-wing and helicopter surveys using pre-programmed drape surfaces. These navigation systems provide our pilots three-dimensional guidance with the highest resolution and accuracy available today, while incorporating each specific aircraft’s safe flight characteristics.

Magnetic survey design is driven by a combination of technical and practical considerations. Each survey is different, and special circumstances in any given area may dictate a different approach to the survey layout. At EDCON-PRJ, we have over 40 years experience designing the optimal survey for your projects specific needs. A detailed discussion of Magnetic Survey Design, by Dr. Richard A. Hansen, is offered here.

We have recently joined forces with Juniper Unmanned, a Golden Colorado-based company to provide ultrahigh-resolution drone-based surveys for abandoned well and pipeline location services.

Juniper Unmanned is a premier operator of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) with advanced sensing technologies. Juniper Unmanned provides premier drone solutions for commercial, federal, state, and military organizations. The company integrates best-in-class aircraft with the most advanced sensors. When combined with Juniper’s engineered processes, advanced software, and analytics, clients receive unparalleled data and actionable intelligence to provide solutions and improve their business.