Enabling Rapid Thermal Infrared (TIR) Monitoring in Restricted Airspaces: U-space Integration for and Environmental Assessment

High-frequency Thermal Infrared (TIR) observations are essential for characterizing surface temperature anomalies in areas exposed to natural and anthropogenic hazards. However, in densely urbanized regions like Southern Italy, airspace restrictions often delay UAS deployments, hindering real-time data collection during evolving crises. This study explores the integration of UAS within the U-space ecosystem—including network identification and geo-awareness—as a transformative enabler for advanced thermal remote sensing.

We present multidisciplinary case studies in the Campania Region where TIR payloads on UAS platforms were successfully employed for: 1) identifying thermal anomalies in the Campi Flegrei caldera; 2) detecting persistent soil moisture and flood causes in agricultural areas; and 3) assessing fire ignition risks in illegal waste disposal sites; 4) definition of susceptibility maps for the triggering of anthropogenic sinkholes. By overcoming "no-fly zone" limitations through Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) experiments, we demonstrate how rapid TIR data acquisition provides crucial decision-making tools for risk management.

To bridge the gap between research, monitoring, and operational continuity, we will launch, in agreement with ENAC, an initial U-Space test on the island of Ischia (characterized by volcanic and hydrogeological multi-hazards) since it currently has fewer airspace restrictions.