Geometrics MagArrow Mk2 magnetometer

Geometrics MagArrow Mk2 is an advanced, UAV-deployable magnetometer designed for high-resolution magnetic surveys. With cutting-edge technology, lightweight construction, and exceptional sensitivity, it is an ideal solution for geophysical exploration, UXO detection, environmental studies, and archaeological surveys.

Geophysical Exploration – Mineral and resource mapping
UXO Detection – Locating unexploded ordnance
Archaeology – Non-invasive underground structure detection
Environmental Studies – Pollution and subsurface feature analysis
Infrastructure & Security – Identifying buried pipelines and hidden anomalies

Ultra-sensitive lightweight magnetometer for UAV

The MagArrow II represents the second generation of Geometrics’ best-selling magnetometer. This advanced system builds on its predecessor’s success while introducing several improvements. It functions as a fully self-contained sensor, featuring a built-in GPS receiver, data recorder, and battery. Additionally, users can deploy the MagArrow II with any UAV capable of carrying a 1 kg payload.

To minimize noise from the drone’s motors and electronics, users should mount the MagArrow with 3-meter-long suspension ropes. This setup reduces magnetic interference and improves data quality. For this configuration, larger drones—such as the DJI M600 Pro or similar—work best. However, when using smaller drones like the DJI M350 or M300 RTK, it’s better to attach extension poles to the drone’s legs to achieve proper clearance.

Alternatively, users can mount the MagArrow directly on the drone’s legs and apply a low-pass filter during post-processing to eliminate noise. While this approach performs well for tasks such as UXO surveys, it may not provide the sensitivity required for detecting weak or long-wavelength anomalies. Therefore, for applications like archaeology or geological mapping, the suspension rope method remains the better option.

Recommended applications include:

• Environmental surveys – Detect abandoned wells, pipes, and buried storage tanks.
• Geological investigations – Map variations in the Earth’s magnetic field.
• Archaeological studies – Identify weak magnetic anomalies from buried features and artifacts.
• UXO detection – Search for unexploded ordnance in former conflict zones or testing ranges.

Keep in mind an important principle when using magnetometers to locate artificial objects or archaeological artifacts: fly as low as possible. For example, during UXO surveys, flying just 1 meter—or even lower—above the ground provides the best results. In such cases, the drone must include a terrain-following system, which comes bundled with the recommended magnetometer package.