Temperature

The most important relationship between temperature and data collection is that sUAS flight batteries are severely affected by temperature. There is a significant decrease in the amount of current available for takeoff, and the capacity of the battery for endurance. It is important to keep the batteries warm, hopefully around room temperature, before using in a sUAS when temperatures are below room temperature.

Temperature can affect the sensors should water vapor condense inside the sensor to fog up the lens when used in a high humidity environment and the temperature of the sensor is low. This can happen when a sensor is used at high altitudes. The temperature drops at a rate of 2.5 deg F per 1,000 feet in altitude. At 7,000 feet where some manned planes might operate the temperature is cooler. This is not a typical problem because the sensors are sealed to avoid this issue but there are some instances of this.