Abstract: Image acquisition and analysis systems for efficiently generating high resolution geo-referenced spectral imagery of a region of interest. In some examples, aerial spectral imaging systems for remote sensing of a geographic region, such as a vegetative landscape are disclosed for monitoring the development and health of the vegetative landscape. In some examples photogrammetry processes are applied to a first set of image frames captured with a first image sensor having a first field of view to generate external orientation data and surface elevation data and the generated external orientation data is translated into external orientation data for other image sensors co-located on the same apparatus for generating geo-referenced images of images captured by the one or more other image sensors.

Abstract: Fiber-optic bundles for infrared spectral analysis of media. The fiber-optic bundles can be used in infrared probes configured to be inserted in media for in-situ characterization of the media. The fiber-optic bundles can include a plurality of optical fibers arranged in a spatial pattern at a sampling end of the bundle to improve a signal of infrared spectral measurements. In-situ probes of the present disclosure can be used for precision farming practices to improve soil health and increase crop yields.

Abstract: Subject soils are classified using a sensing tool. By profiling each of a number of first locations that have a ground truth classification, using a deployed sensing tool, digital soil properties of new locations without ground truth classifications can be obtained to determine corresponding classifications for the new locations. This allows information related to classifications to be utilized for optimal use of the new locations.

Abstract: Image acquisition and analysis systems for efficiently generating high resolution geo-referenced spectral imagery of a region of interest. In some examples, aerial spectral imaging systems for remote sensing of a geographic region, such as a vegetative landscape are disclosed for monitoring the development and health of the vegetative landscape. In some examples photogrammetry processes are applied to a first set of image frames captured with a first image sensor having a first field of view to generate external orientation data and surface elevation data and the generated external orientation data is translated into external orientation data for other image sensors co-located on the same apparatus for generating geo-referenced images of images captured by the one or more other image sensors.

Abstract: An in situ near infrared sensing unit includes a housing allowing the sensing unit to be inserted in a variety of media. A transparent window is formed in the sidewall of the housing. A sensing element is mounted inside the housing. The sensing element is configured to emit near infrared light provided from a light source external to the housing, and the sensing element is configured to collect near infrared light transmitted through the transparent window. A mirror is mounted in the housing at an angle with respect to the transparent window and opposite the sensing element. The angle allows the mirror to reflect the near infrared light, emitted by the sensing element, through the transparent window.

Abstract: A probe for penetrating and measuring electrical properties of a soil comprises a probe tip connected, via a coaxial cable, to electrical circuitry. The probe tip is convex and includes first and second electrodes with an electrode insulator therebetween. The first electrode is tubular and includes an interior surface defining a central opening extending through the first electrode. The second electrode includes a convex section extending away from the first electrode, and the convex section is configured for insertion into soil. The one end of the coaxial cable is disposed within the central opening of the first electrode, and the inner conductive core of one end of the coaxial cable connected to the second electrode, and the conductive shield of the one end of the coaxial cable connected to the first electrode.

Abstract: Subject soils are classified using a sensing tool. By profiling each of a number of first locations that have a ground truth classification, using a deployed sensing tool, digital soil properties of new locations without ground truth classifications can obtained to determine corresponding classifications for the new locations. This allows information related classifications to be utilized for optimal used of the new locations.

Abstract: An in situ near infrared sensing unit includes a housing allowing the sensing unit to be inserted in a variety of media. A transparent window is formed in the sidewall of the housing. A sensing element is mounted inside the housing. The sensing element is configured to emit near infrared light provided from a light source external to the housing, and the sensing element is configured to collect near infrared light transmitted through the transparent window. A mirror is mounted in the housing at an angle with respect to the transparent window and opposite the sensing element. The angle allows the mirror to reflect the near infrared light, emitted by the sensing element, through the transparent window.