Integration of optical systems in UAVs for sustainable development of digital agriculture

The article discusses modern optical systems integrated into UAVs and their importance for the sustainable development of precision farming. An overview of sensor types, their technical characteristics and advantages over satellite remote sensing methods is provided. The results of comparative studies demonstrating the high accuracy of optical sensors in monitoring the condition of agricultural crops, identifying water stress and signs of phytopathologies are described. It is noted that the use of UAVs with optical systems contributes to increasing crop yields and reducing the consumption of water and chemical resources, which is especially important for regions with limited natural resources. Current technological limitations are outlined, including dependence on weather conditions, the need for radiometric calibration and the high cost of equipment. Promising areas of development are identified, including the integration of artificial intelligence and standardization of protocols. A conclusion is made about the importance of an interdisciplinary approach for the successful implementation and scaling of optical technologies in the agricultural sector.