"Airborne Sense and Avoid" (BSA or ACA for some systems, also known as Detect and Avoid or DAA) is a system used in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), drones, and other aircraft to detect and avoid collisions with other aircraft, obstacles, or terrain. The primary goal of Airborne Sense and Avoid is to ensure the safe operation of UAVs and drones in shared airspace with manned aircraft, while minimizing the risk of mid-air collisions.

The system typically consists of a combination of sensors, software, and hardware that work together to:

1. Detect: Identify potential obstacles or other aircraft in the vicinity of the UAV or drone.
2. Track: Monitor the movement and trajectory of the detected obstacles or aircraft.
3. Predict: Anticipate potential collisions based on the tracked data.
4. Avoid: Take evasive action to avoid a potential collision, such as changing course or altitude.

The Airborne Sense and Avoid system may utilize various sensors and technologies, including:

• Radar (e.g., traditional or phased array)
• Lidar (Light Detection and Ranging)
• Cameras and computer vision
• Infrared sensors
• Acoustic sensors

*ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast) receivers

• Transponders

These sensors provide data to the onboard computer, which analyzes the information to detect and track potential obstacles. The system then uses algorithms and software to predict potential collisions and initiate avoidance maneuvers.

The Airborne Sense and Avoid system is crucial for the integration of UAVs and drones into national airspace systems, as it enables them to operate safely and efficiently alongside manned aircraft. This technology is essential for various applications, including:

• Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operations
• Drone delivery and transportation
• Aerial surveying and mapping
• Search and rescue operations
• Border patrol and surveillance

Regulatory bodies, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States, are working to establish standards and guidelines for the development and implementation of Airborne Sense and Avoid systems. These standards aim to ensure that UAVs and drones can safely operate in shared airspace with manned aircraft, while minimizing the risk of accidents and collisions.