University of North Dakota and GrandSKY Collaborate on NASA-Funded UAS Weather Forecasting Project

Project Enhances UAS Capabilities for Safer Airspace Integration

The University of North Dakota (UND) is partnering with GrandSKY on a NASA-funded project to enhance Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) forecasting. By integrating data collected from “Meteodrone,” the project aims to develop a high-accuracy weather forecasting system. The initiative will improve flight planning and airspace management, particularly in challenging weather conditions.

Advancing UAS Decision-Making with Weather Data

UND researchers will use UAS-collected data to refine forecasting models that support UAS operations. Dr. Mounir Chrit, from UND’s John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences, emphasized the project’s broader mission.

“What we are building at UND is not just about flying drones—it’s about providing well-calibrated systems that support decision-making under uncertainty in various mission-critical applications,” said Chrit. “Our work will provide crucial insights and enhance the safety, efficiency, and reliability of UAS missions, creating a model for the future of aviation.”

The collaboration aligns with NASA’s objective of integrating UAS into the national airspace system. By leveraging North Dakota’s UAS infrastructure, the team aims to enhance safety and efficiency for commercial and research-driven drone operations.

The Role of GrandSKY in UAS Development

GrandSKY’s infrastructure and location near Grand Forks Air Force Base provide a testing ground for advanced UAS applications. The flight operations center facilitates research, development, and training for commercial and military UAS stakeholders.

“UAS-collected data is important to fill data gaps in the low-altitude atmosphere where most UAS flights take place,” said Dr. Marwa Majdi, co-principal investigator of the NASA project at UND Aerospace Sciences.

Tom Swoyer, President of GrandSKY, emphasized the significance of precise weather data for drone operations.

“As the first large-scale commercial UAS test park in the nation, providing aircrews with the most accurate weather information possible is of paramount importance to various UAS industry stakeholders,” said Swoyer.

Strengthening North Dakota’s UAS Industry

This collaboration underscores North Dakota’s role in advancing drone technology. The state continues to be a hub for UAS development, attracting researchers and industry partners.

“This collaboration with GrandSKY highlights North Dakota’s position at the forefront of UAS development in the world,” added Chrit. “Along with recent initiatives and advancements, we are strengthening our state’s claim as the most drone-friendly place in the country. The future of UAS technology is being built here, and it’s exciting to lead this important part of it.”

About UND Aerospace

The University of North Dakota Aerospace is a leading institution for aviation and aerospace research and education. The program offers advanced research opportunities, cutting-edge facilities, and extensive training in aviation and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).

About GrandSKY

GrandSKY is a dedicated UAS flight operations center in Grand Forks, North Dakota. The 217-acre facility provides research, development, training, and testing for commercial and military drone applications. GrandSKY supports UAS operations through access to an Air Force runway and beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) capabilities. For more information, visit grandskynd.com.

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Read more:

• NOAA and GrandSky Partner to Enhance Weather Forecasting with Drones
• Grand Forks County Partners with GrandSKY for Cutting-Edge UAS Development
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