Ground Penetrating Radar

Drone-mounted GPR for subsurface mapping — utility detection, archaeology, ice and road survey. Radar Systems Zond, MALÅ GeoDrone and Radarteam Cobra antennas, integrated with SkyHub for terrain-following flight. Quoted per configuration.

In India, drone GPR is used by utility-mapping and infrastructure firms, metro, highway and civil engineering contractors, mining and geotechnical consultants, and archaeology and glaciology researchers.

New to drone GPR? Read the drone GPR in India guide: every system compared, what a full setup needs, and real survey examples.

How to choose a drone GPR

• Depth versus detail: higher frequencies resolve more detail near the surface. The shielded Zond Aero 500, 600 and 1000 NG and the 500 MHz Cobra Drone CBD suit utilities and shallow structures. The Zond Aero LF (100, 150 and 300 MHz) reaches up to 12 m in soil with εr = 5, and the Cobra Plug-In (52–124 MHz) is listed for 20–30 m.
• Hard terrain: the MALÅ GeoDrone 600 is designed for remote, rocky, snow-covered or river-crossing sites.
• Ground and air: Zond Aero units can also run on foot with the GPR cart and, with the zBELL RTK receiver, centimetre positioning.
• Drone and mounts: mountings are listed for the DJI M350/M300 RTK, DJI M400 and Inspired Flight IF1200; see mounts and cables.
• Software: the SkyHub software package for GPR logs data in flight; GPR software processes it.

Frequently asked questions

What is in a typical drone GPR system?

The GPR antenna, a mount for your drone, the SkyHub onboard computer with its GPR package, an altimeter for True Terrain Following, and processing software such as GeoHammer.

Why is terrain following needed?

GPR works best at a constant, low height above the ground. SkyHub with a radar or laser altimeter holds that clearance over uneven terrain.

Is GPR training available?

Yes. SPH Engineering's GPR-1, GPR-2 and GPR-3 courses come as self-study or trainer-led, with a practical exam; see GPR training. Priced on request.

What does a drone GPR cost?

Every system is quoted per configuration. Ask for the current lead time with your quote.