Purpose & Application
Q: What is the Elios 3 RAD Payload for?
It enables the Elios 3 drone to perform remote radiation detection and localization, letting operators survey hazardous or confined indoor environments without human exposure
Q: Which sectors benefit most from this payload?
Primarily used in nuclear facilities, waste management, power generation, and other industries dealing with radiological hazards
In-Flight & Post-Flight Functionality
Q: What real-time data does the payload provide during flight?
Operators receive live readings of current dose rate, cumulative dose, max dose, and history trends, enabling hotspot detection and measurement tracking
Q: What analysis is possible after the flight?
All measurements are timestamped and mapped onto a 3D model, where trajectories are color-coded by radiation level to accurately locate sources and generate reporting data
Sensor & Technology
Q: Which radiation sensor is integrated?
Utilizes the Mirion RDS32 WR survey meter—an industry-standard, swappable sensor for μSv/h to Sv/h measurements
Q: Is the sensor replaceable or upgradeable?
Yes—the payload supports detaching and swapping RDS32 WR units, facilitating calibration compliance and modular field operations
Safety, Standards & Awards
Q: How much radiation can the system tolerate?
Tested up to 10,000 R/h with cumulative exposure of 4,000 R, making it suitable for many nuclear scenarios
Q: Has the payload won any industry recognition?
Yes—it won the Innovation Award at the 2023 World Nuclear Exhibition for its contribution to radiation safety
Benefits & Impact
Q: What are the key benefits compared to traditional methods?
Enables remote surveying, eliminating human presence in hazardous zones
Offers fast hotspot detection
Generates 3D heat maps for improved operational planning
Q: How widespread is its adoption?
Elios drones—with RAD payload—are used in over 80% of U.S. nuclear power plants, with deployments at sites like Sellafield and DOE facilities