Structure for Outdoor Autonomy Research

Overview
Facility
SOAR
Number
A275
Function
Other
Gross Square Feet
24,000
Construction Cost
$765,434
Completed
November 2020
Architect
Not Applicable
Function
The University at Buffalo’s outdoor testing facility for uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs). It is among the nation’s largest such facilities on university campuses.
It will enable UB researchers, students and partners to develop cutting-edge technological solutions using UAVs (more commonly known as unmanned aerial vehicles or drones), to address challenges in transportation and delivery services, disaster response and national security.
Because it is enclosed, and thus considered an indoor flight facility, researchers will not be subject to Federal Aviation Administration rules when testing UAVs.
Namesake
Not applicable
The facility, known as SOAR (Structure for Outdoor Autonomy Research), is a 24,000-square-foot netted structure located off Maple Road on the North Campus. It is among the nation’s largest such facilities on university campuses.
It will enable UB researchers, students and partners to develop cutting-edge technological solutions using UAVs (more commonly known as unmanned aerial vehicles or drones), to address challenges in transportation and delivery services, disaster response and national security.
Because it is enclosed, and thus considered an indoor flight facility, researchers will not be subject to Federal Aviation Administration rules when testing UAVs.
Sitler, Douglas (2021, September 28). UB to demonstrate drone testing facility Thursday. UB News Center. https://www.buffalo.edu/news/releases/2021/09/037.html