Utilization of Drone with Thermal Camera in Mapping Digital Elevation Model for Ie Seu'um Geothermal Manifestation Exploration Security

Abstract

Geothermal energy is a viable alternative energy source, particularly in Indonesia. This study was conducted at Ie Seu’um, Mount Seulawah Agam, which is a potential site for a geothermal power plant with an estimated electrical output of 150 megawatts. The objective of this study was to analyze and construct a digital elevation model (DEM) map of the geothermal manifestations. We analyzed water temperature, FLIR (Forward Looking Infrared) temperature, and temperature data from Landsat 8 satellite imagery. To map the heat signature of geothermal features, we utilized the DJI Phantom 4 Standard equipped with the FLIR One Gen 2 sensor. Additionally, we used the Milwaukee Mi306 to calculate the water temperature. Each test was conducted three times to obtain an optimal average level of accuracy. The DEM map was created to assess the level of safety in geothermal manifestation exploration. Elevation and slope values were analyzed to generate a 3D map display, providing a clearer image of the research site. In conclusion, drones prove to be an excellent method for ensuring the safety of exploration in geothermal manifestation areas.