The Mission Planning Interface (MPI) provides a workspace for operators to define goals and requirements for a surveillance mission. Autonomous mission planning algorithms use this information to generate specific mission plans. The MPI allows operators to do the following:

Map manipulation. The operator can load a desired map, then pan and zoom within the map image to select a mission area and start position.

Specify mission and target parameters. Operators define general mission parameters such as overall duration, then place targets and specify properties of these targets as needed to generate optimal mission plans. To simplify the process, an operator can select from several target icon palettes where each icon represents a particular target type and is associated with predefined default properties.

Specify observation maneuvers and sensing actions to be carried out at each target. Maneuvers include pause at best vantage, pirouette, sweep, arch, strafe (scan), spiral and others. Sensing actions determine whether to acquire still images, video or laser return data.

Support for multiple MPIs. The MPI is implemented as a client process running on a web browser. Multiple operators at different locations can, through their separate browsers, contribute to the specification of a mission or in-flight modification. Operators can import mission goals sent by previous operators by pressing the GET button.

Callibrate GPS. The default start position for a mission is determined automatically using the positions returned by the onboard GPS. Users can correct discrepancies between sensed and actual GPS position using the ADJUST function.

Start the mission. The operator initiates mission planning and begins autonomous execution of the mission by pressing the SEND key. The operator then typically begins monitoring the Moving Map view unless in-flight changes to the mission definition are desired.

Rally and Land. The operator can move the vehicle to a safe position using the RALLY function. This allows humans near the landing site to also get to a safe position. The LAND function is then used to engage autonomous landing.

Demo the Mission Planning Interface

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