ONav is a heads-up navigation display for pilots for coastal imagery acquisition. The system is built on the Linux operating system (Debian) and utilizes a number of open-source tools and data sources.

The system combines a real-time Global Positioning System (GPS) and inertial measurement unit (IMU) stream, along with image collection metadata from the onboard cameras to generate vector overlays the pilots can use to easily navigate, track progress, and ensure full coverage of the survey area. This technique has vastly improved the efficiency with which images can be collected.

The portable, low-cost system is Web browser-based, so no software installation is required. It can be deployed worldwide, and enables on-the-fly mission planning. In addition, it enables more efficient mid-flight error corrections.

The GeoPixel imaging system is designed to be used with the ONav system. GeoPixel displays a grid of Ground Control Points (GCP) over the visible image and tracks the movement of the cursor over the image to display the calculated position in three-dimensional space. GeoPixel provides realtime, high-definition imaging with precise longitude and latitude (mouse over images).

For more information, contact the NOAA Technology Partnerships Office at 301-713-3565.