Near-surface Geological Context, Natural and Anthropic Features Revealed by Drone-borne Geophysics: Case Studies Near Danube Delta

One of the main goals of geoscientists from the National Institute of Marine Geology and Geoecology – GeoEcoMar, constantly pursued in recent years is the introduction in current practice of new geophysical tools for the non-destructive, non-invasive and environment-friendly investigation of areas inaccessible, or only partially accessible to the classic geophysical mapping methodologies, such as those covered by very shallow waters, swamps and reed. The implementation of the core-project “The study of the geodynamic regime on Dobrogea, of its influence on the paleo-geographical changes produced in the Black Sea coastal area, including the Danube Delta, as well as on the presence and human activities”, funded by the Romanian Ministry of Research and Innovation made this desire achievable.

The use of aerial drones, able to carry on board miniaturized geophysical equipment, high-resolution cameras and various spectral sensors made possible, besides the study of the near-surface and deep geological structure, also the study of environmental health and the advanced investigation of archaeological sites. The paper presents, as distinct case studies, some of the results obtained by the airborne geophysical investigations carried out on board UAV systems, recently conducted in Northern Dobrogea, Romania.