Which of the following is one function of the Ground Control Station (GCS)?

One key function of the Ground Control Station (GCS) is to provide payload monitoring and control. In the context of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), the GCS serves as the central hub where operators can manage and oversee various aspects of the drone’s mission. This includes monitoring the payload, such as sensors or cameras, ensuring they are functioning correctly, and making real-time adjustments to their operation as needed.

By facilitating direct access to the payload data and controls, the GCS allows operators to gather crucial information from the UAS, which can enhance the effectiveness of the mission, whether it's for surveillance, reconnaissance, or data collection. This capability is essential for ensuring that the payload is utilized optimally and that the data collected meets the mission's objectives.

In contrast, while monitoring weather patterns may be important for overall flight safety and operational planning, it is not a direct function of the GCS. Conducting safety inspections is typically part of pre-flight and maintenance procedures, which is a separate process from the operational role of the GCS. Generating flight plans, while an important task, often involves software tools that can be independent of the GCS's primary functions.