|
EXPERIENCE > YOUTH ACTIVITIES
Drones, more accurately known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are an emerging aircraft technology that does not have a human pilot onboard. Drones are controlled by a ground-based pilot who provides the aircraft with flight and operational instructions via a two-way communications system. Drones were created to fly missions considered too unimportant or dangerous to risk a human's life. One of their earliest and best-known uses was as a military tool to observe enemy troop movements, or deliver an explosive payload. However, drones have rapidly become more versatile and are now used to carry mail packages, assist police, survey agricultural crops, and for recreation and home photography.
For years, marine biologists have used drones and drone-like technology (often referred to as remotely-operated vehicles (ROVs) or autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs)) to explore areas of the ocean that would present extreme risk to humans. This may include volcanic vents or extreme depths. With the advent of commercial flying drones, scientists can now add a new layer of observation to their discipline. For example, imagine being able to watch and track the migration of whales in high definition video without ever getting close enough to bother or scare away the animals.
You can learn more about ROVs, AUVs and flying drones by visiting our Virtual Explorations page to see how some of our exploration partners are putting this tech to use in the field.
Drones, more accurately known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are an emerging aircraft technology that does not have a human pilot onboard. Drones are controlled by a ground-based pilot who provides the aircraft with flight and operational instructions via a two-way communications system. Drones were created to fly missions considered too unimportant or dangerous to risk a human's life. One of their earliest and best-known uses was as a military tool to observe enemy troop movements, or deliver an explosive payload. However, drones have rapidly become more versatile and are now used to carry mail packages, assist police, survey agricultural crops, and for recreation and home photography.
For years, marine biologists have used drones and drone-like technology (often referred to as remotely-operated vehicles (ROVs) or autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs)) to explore areas of the ocean that would present extreme risk to humans. This may include volcanic vents or extreme depths. With the advent of commercial flying drones, scientists can now add a new layer of observation to their discipline. For example, imagine being able to watch and track the migration of whales in high definition video without ever getting close enough to bother or scare away the animals.
You can learn more about ROVs, AUVs and flying drones by visiting our Virtual Explorations page to see how some of our exploration partners are putting this tech to use in the field.
A Word of Warning
Although drones present an opportunity to see and investigate our natural world in new ways, they are not without their risks. Everything from high winds to user error can cause a drone to go off course, creating injury or damage as a result. The Federal Aviation Administration now oversees the regulation of drones and where they can fly. These laws are relatively new and intended to keep the technology moving forward while protecting privacy and safety. Before you ever fly a drone, check your local laws and regulations to make sure you're doing so in an approved area. You should never use a drone to harass wild or domesticated animals, and doing so could result in legal penalties.
Related Features: Encountering Wildlife | Outdoor Etiquette
Related Features: Encountering Wildlife | Outdoor Etiquette
|
First Flight: Ian Throckmorten, the Aquarium's Bioblitz Coordinator, provides a workshop to youth volunteers about using flying drones as a photography and observation tool.
|
