Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi has recently elevated its drone research program to institute status, marking a significant milestone in its 10-year history. The program, formerly known as The Lone Star UAS Center of Excellence and Innovation, has been renamed the Autonomy Research Institute to reflect its expanded scope beyond unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to encompass other autonomous systems.
In a recent interview with Texas Standard, Mike Sanders, the executive director of the Institute, shared insights on the program’s evolution and future plans. Sanders highlighted the institute’s origins, which can be traced back to the FAA Modernization Reform Act of 2012, where Congress mandated the establishment of six UAS test sites. Texas A&M Corpus Christi’s program was one of the first to be established in 2014, with a focus on conducting research, development, and testing for the FAA.
The Autonomy Research Institute serves as a hub for a wide range of research activities, collaborating with agencies such as NASA and the FAA, as well as commercial entities seeking to advance their knowledge of drone technology. Students from various disciplines, not just limited to STEM fields, are actively involved in the program, gaining hands-on experience in areas such as coding, engineering, and machine learning.
The institute’s strategic location near the Gulf Coast provides unique advantages for conducting research on autonomous systems. The diverse ecosystem, which includes coastal, littoral, and inland environments, offers a rich setting for testing various applications of drone technology. The institute’s proximity to the coast also allows for innovative research opportunities in areas such as wildlife rescue and environmental monitoring.
With a focus on safety and efficiency, the institute explores a wide range of practical applications for drone technology, including pipeline inspections, windmill blade monitoring, and agricultural tasks. Looking ahead, the institute is also actively involved in the development of advanced air mobility solutions, such as flying taxis, to meet the growing demands of commercial aviation.
While drones are often associated with military applications, the Autonomy Research Institute primarily collaborates with civilian agencies and organizations to address various societal challenges. Projects related to wildlife rescue, environmental monitoring, and disaster response are among the key areas of focus for the institute, showcasing the diverse applications of autonomous systems beyond military contexts.
The renaming and rebranding of the institute as the Autonomy Research Institute reflect its evolving focus on autonomy across different domains, including ground, water, and air. By expanding its scope beyond UAS to encompass a broader range of autonomous systems, the institute aims to position itself as a leading research institution in the Coastal Bend region of Texas.
As the institute continues to grow and adapt to changing technological landscapes, its commitment to innovation and collaboration remains unwavering. With a dedicated team of researchers, students, and industry partners, the Autonomy Research Institute is poised to make significant contributions to the field of autonomous systems and shape the future of drone technology.
In conclusion, Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi’s elevation of its drone research program to institute status marks a significant milestone in its 10-year journey. The Autonomy Research Institute’s expanded focus on autonomy research across various domains reflects its commitment to innovation, collaboration, and excellence in advancing drone technology and autonomous systems.