Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices relating to a communications system for use with unmanned aerial vehicles. The communications system is equipped with a controller/processor, a satellite-based communications module, and an RF-based communications module. Both communications modules are coupled to an autopilot module and to sensor modules so that commands can be received by the autopilot module from the communication modules. As well, the flight characteristics can be received from the sensor modules and can be transmitted to a base station by way of the communications modules. For short to medium range missions, the RF-based communications module is active with the satellite based communications module providing a backup communications link. For medium to long rage missions, the satellite based communications module is active and the base station and the UAV communicate by way of this module.

Abstract: Systems, methods and devices for use with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV). A central controller is coupled to the autopilot system for a UAV. Navigation is implemented by using two GPS antennas and obtaining a difference between the locations from these two antenna to arrive at a high precision bearing or direction of travel. This single GPS derived bearing is used to trigger all the various subsystems on the UAV for imaging or mapping. Areas and locations to be mapped and imaged are determined by geolocation and mapping and imaging equipment are triggered based on the single GPS signal derived from the two GPS antennas. To reduce vibration effects on navigational and imaging or mapping equipment, these are positioned as close as possible to the vehicle's center of gravity and are deployed in a shielded box on vibration isolation mounts.