#United States #NASA #AirSpace Integration #PAMS #La Selva Beach

Collaboration on Cutting-Edge Wildland Fire Solutions

AirSpace Integration (ASI) has made headlines for its pivotal role in supporting NASA's recent flight test, aimed at implementing advanced technologies to improve wildland fire operations. The event marked a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to better equip emergency responders in tackling wildfires through innovative drone technology.

In November 2024, the Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations (ACERO) project initiated tests of the Portable Airspace Management System (PAMS) at the Monterey Bay Academy Airport located in La Selva Beach, California. PAMS is designed to empower drone pilots by providing a streamlined and safe method for deploying drones during wildfire emergencies. Each unit is engineered to include a computer system for managing airspace, a radio for inter-unit communication, and an Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) receiver for monitoring nearby air traffic. All these components are cleverly housed within a robust, portable container.

The testing conducted involved rigorous evaluations by researchers from NASA's Ames Research Center, situated in Silicon Valley. They simulated real-world conditions by assessing how multiple PAMS units could effectively coordinate with one another via aerial communication relays. This holistic approach demonstrated the system's capabilities under various scenarios, highlighting the importance of precise coordination in emergency situations.

Chris Bley, founder of AirSpace Integration, expressed enthusiasm about the collaborative efforts, stating, "This event showcased the tremendous potential of drone test sites in advancing technologies that address real-world challenges. We are honored to work alongside NASA and industry partners on this vital initiative and look forward to continuing these efforts in spring 2025 to enhance emergency response capabilities nationwide."

ASI's Advanced Testing Facility

AirSpace Integration operates under an FAA Certificate of Authorization (COA) and possesses a dedicated testing facility tailored specifically for advanced aerial research. The location, known for its unique features, provides a variety of resources that are critical for drone innovation and testing:

• - A 2,200-foot grass airfield (CA66) suitable for diverse takeoff and landing operations.
• - Access to real-time weather data through a Naval Research Lab weather station, which aids in accurate flight planning.
• - Class G airspace availability, which allows seamless uncrewed flight testing in conjunction with general aviation traffic.
• - Proximity to Monterey Bay, facilitating research in maritime applications.
• - Opportunities for hands-on learning aimed at inspiring the next generation of aviation professionals.

This collection of facilities positions ASI as a premier hub for drone innovation and skill development in the field of aerial research and technology.

Commitment to Safety

Safety remains the cornerstone of ASI's operations, as the organization employs rigorous oversight procedures backed by a team of seasoned aviation professionals. The commitment to safety includes robust measures such as utilizing chase pilots, boats, and ground observers during testing operations. Additionally, advanced systems are in place to ensure real-time air traffic deconfliction, thus enabling safe coordination within complex airspace.

Through strategic partnerships with public and governmental organizations, ASI reinforces its dedication to maintaining the highest standards within unmanned aviation. Bley emphasized the significance of this collaboration with NASA, stating, "ASI is proud to support NASA's ACERO tests, which advance the adoption of safe, coordinated, and efficient emergency response operations using cutting-edge drone and communications technologies within the FAA's National Airspace System."

For those keen to learn more about AirSpace Integration and its pioneering testing capabilities, detailed information can be found on their official website: AirspaceIntegration.com