Thesis
Drone-based observations of marine aerosols and meteorological conditions over the Great Barrier Reef
Southern Cross University
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Southern Cross University
2026
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25918/thesis.569
Appears in Recent Southern Cross PhD Theses
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Abstract
This thesis uses drone-based observations to investigate marine aerosols and atmospheric conditions above the Great Barrier Reef. It develops a framework for optimal sensor placement to reduce measurement bias from drone airflow and demonstrates that consumer-grade drones can collect vertical profiles up to 1500 m as a cost-effective alternative to weather balloons. Field measurements show that aerosol distributions are influenced by meteorology, air mass origin, and wave activity. By integrating observations and simulations, the study advances methods for atmospheric monitoring and improves understanding of marine aerosol dynamics, supporting applications in climate modelling, weather forecasting, and reef management.
Details
- Title
- Drone-based observations of marine aerosols and meteorological conditions over the Great Barrier Reef
- Creators
- Christian Eckert
- Contributors
- Brendan Kelaher (Supervisor) - Southern Cross UniversityDaniel Patrick Harrison (Supervisor) - Southern Cross University
- Awarding Institution
- Southern Cross University; Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Theses
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Southern Cross University
- Publisher
- Southern Cross University
- Number of pages
- vii, 147
- Identifiers
- 991013374261802368
- Copyright
- © Christian Eckert 2026
- Academic Unit
- Faculty of Science and Engineering; National Marine Science Centre
- Resource Type
- Thesis