With an investment of approximately $150,000 and inaugurated in June 2023, the University of Texas at San Antonio’s new outdoor drone enclosure is gaining traction for research across various departments.
Standing 60 feet tall and constructed from telephone poles and wire netting, the facility resembles a giant batting cage but serves a different purpose. It is the first of its kind at a Texas university and the largest among four similar sites nationwide. UTSA faculty believe it will enhance the region’s reputation as a leader in aviation technology research.
This facility allows researchers to test drones in an outdoor setting without the limitations imposed by Federal Aviation Administration regulations, thanks to the enclosure.
The site, funded by UTSA’s strategic investment, has quickly become popular for research and is fostering collaboration among departments. It also serves as a tool for engaging people of all ages in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
The development reflects San Antonio’s growing investment in drone technology, supported by a local drone manufacturer, Port San Antonio’s ambition to be a hub for autonomous vehicles, and the presence of the Air Force headquarters overseeing military drones. Additionally, local schools are beginning to implement drone programs, signaling further growth in the industry.
Chris Combs, a UTSA hypersonics professor involved with the facility, views it as a rare asset that will boost research and outreach in emerging drone technology. He emphasizes the facility’s potential for engaging students and encouraging interest in STEM careers through hands-on technology experiences.
The facility also supports city and nonprofit initiatives aimed at advancing drone technology. As drones continue to be used in various fields such as aerial photography, surveillance, and infrastructure inspection, UTSA’s site will contribute to expanding knowledge and capabilities in this evolving area.
Recently, graduate student Juan Cruz tested a $12,000 DJI quadcopter inside the facility, demonstrating its value for operations that can’t be conducted outdoors. Professors Ao Du and Jiannon Cai are using the facility to explore automated systems for inspecting infrastructure with drones and ground robots.
UTSA is also exploring the possibility of offering certifications or degrees in drone technology in the future.
