Universitas Gadjah Mada Develops AI Drone System to Monitor Papaya Plant Health
Yogyakarta – Ardan Wiratmoko, S.T.P., M.Sc., a researcher from the Faculty of Agricultural Technology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), is leading the development of an innovative system to evaluate the health of papaya plants (Carica papaya L.). This system utilizes Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) drone technology equipped with multispectral sensors, with data analysis powered by Computer Vision, aiming to support more precise cultivation management.
The research, initiated in 2025, focuses on leveraging advanced technology to detect the physiological condition of papaya plants in a non-invasive manner. VTOL drones are selected for their ability to take off and land vertically, enabling flexible data collection across plantation areas. The multispectral sensors capture spectral data from the plant canopy, which is then processed using Computer Vision algorithms.
“This system is designed to provide spatial information on papaya health status quickly, accurately, and efficiently,” explained Ardan Wiratmoko. “By detecting differences in plant physiological conditions early, farmers can take appropriate preventive or corrective actions, minimizing losses and improving yields.”
This faculty-funded research is a collaborative project with both national and international partners, reflecting Universitas Gadjah Mada’s commitment to delivering globally relevant agricultural solutions. Although still in development, the project is expected to produce models/algorithms as well as innovation videos and posters that can serve as practical guidance for the agricultural industry.
The development of this system marks a significant step forward in the application of AI in agriculture, particularly for papaya cultivation. This innovation is expected to pave the way for smarter and more sustainable farming practices, ensuring optimal and healthy papaya production in the future.
