OTUS PROJECT
Observations of Tornadoes by UAV Systems
The OTUS Project is a groundbreaking self-funded nonprofit mission using advanced drone tech to capture unprecedented thermodynamic data around tornadoes and the first-ever vertical wind speed measurements inside the core to help protect lives, build better structures to withstand the force of nature.
At Paradeigm Films, we create powerful documentaries that drive global impact. We partner with mission-driven non-profits to amplify their work through cinematic storytelling. We’ve partnered with the OTUS PROJECT to amplify their mission and help get them the funding they need to continue this amazing research.
WHAT
The OTUS Project is a groundbreaking nonprofit mission using advanced drone tech to capture unprecedented thermodynamic data around tornadoes and the first-ever vertical wind speed measurements inside the core. Paradeigm Films is documenting their 2025–2026 effort to fly directly into storms.
WHY
This campaign powers the OTUS Project’s groundbreaking tornado research using advanced drone technology. Your support helps capture unprecedented real-time data to improve early warnings and strengthen buildings. Together, we can save lives and protect communities from future disasters. It also fuels a global documentary to raise awareness and inspire action through powerful storytelling.
“Undaunted, this past spring the group found and penetrated a half-dozen twisters. One, the Spiritwood, North Dakota, wedge tornado in June was rated at least EF-3 (ratings go from EF-o to EF-5), quite a monster. The drone, which only weighs about two pounds, survived the savage winds just fine. ”
MEET THE OTUS PROJECT TEAM
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Louis has flown drones his whole life and picked up drone racing in 2019. Thousands of flight hours later, he became the 2023 National Collegiate Drone Racing Champion and led his School to a 1st place finish in 2024. Older brother to Nelson, Louis learned about the challenges that researchers faced when gathering data near/inside a tornado, and figured that the OTUS concept was possible with the right engineering expertise to solve such issues. After pulling in Tanner, a close friend through drone racing, OTUS was born and in less than 3 months he flew the first drone inside a tornado in May 2024.
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Hailing from northern Virginia, Nelson has had a fascination with wind-based phenomena since young childhood. This interest only grew with time, and he has spent much of his life immersing himself in the science and history of volatile weather. Since 2020, Nelson has been a primary researcher/writer at the Tornado Talk LLC, a website devoted to documenting tornado history. In 2024, he was part of the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship at the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Currently, Nelson is in his second-to-last year as a student at Millersville University. He is majoring in Meteorology, with minors in Journalism and Emergency Management. After graduating, Nelson hopes to continue his studies and pursue a PhD. In his spare time, he enjoys weather photography and timelapsing, researching, mapping, and damage analysis.
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Tanner is a aerospace engineer based in Brownsville, TX with over 8 years experience building, flying and racing quads and fixed wing aircraft. He is a sponsored drone racing pilot, placing 2nd at the 2023 collegiate drone racing racing nationals. Tanner has transformed his house into a workshop with a mill, lathe, welder and 3d printers. Outside of drones, Tanner enjoys longboard dancing, surfing and storm chasing!
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Erik has been chasing since 1995 and has been a field correspondent since 2016 for Weather Nation. Before being a correspondent, he was a DOD forecaster from 2010-2015. Erik started the National Storm Chaser Summit (NSCS) in 2019 with James Menzies. When not chasing tornadoes and severe weather, Erik is a police officer and has been with the force since 2010.
WAYS TO SUPPORT
SPONSORSHIPS
Sponsorship offers a unique opportunity to align with innovative science and impactful media. Supporters will be recognized across films, websites, social media, and events—highlighting a shared commitment to resilience, innovation, and public safety.
DONATIONS
Direct donations are essential to the success of Paradeigm Originals and OTUS Project. All contributions are tax-deductible through our fiscal sponsor, the International Documentary Association (IDA), a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
IN-KIND SUPPORT
In-kind contributions—such as vehicles, lodging, travel, equipment, gear, and technology—are essential to offsetting our budget and making these projects possible. We welcome support valued at $5,000 or more, as these non-cash resources play a vital role in bringing this project to life.
For sponsorship opportunities please reach out to Coreen G. Petti at Coreen@paradeigm.com
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
FPV RESEARCH DRONE
Each drone used by the OTUS Project is a custom-engineered system equipped with advanced weather sensors designed to capture thermodynamic data around tornadoes. In partnership with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), these drones also feature a first-of-its-kind vertical wind speed sensor, pushing the boundaries of storm data collection.
In 2026, the OTUS Project aims to deploy over 20 cutting-edge drones for research and tornado intercepts during an intensive 8-week storm season.
RESEARCH VEHICLE
Intercepting tornadoes and deploying OTUS’s specialized drone systems requires more than just bravery — it demands a purpose-built research vehicle.
In 2026, OTUS will launch an 8-week field deployment, and significant vehicle modifications are needed to ensure success. The vehicle must withstand extreme weather, navigate gravel, mud, and dirt roads, and remain fully operational in some of the most ferocious storm environments on Earth.
This isn’t just transportation — it’s a mobile command center. It will be outfitted with custom antennas, satellite connectivity, redundant power systems, and secure integration for our wireless drone networks. These upgrades are essential to safely and effectively launch drones into tornadoes and transmit real-time storm data to our team and collaborators.
Your support directly helps fund these critical upgrades and ensures OTUS can safely pursue its mission of advancing tornado science and saving lives.
