The aerial photos are captured with a custom developed unmanned helicopter system. A digital SLR format camera is used, delivering 10 MP resolution images. Typically lenses with a focal length between  18mm and 50mm are employed depending on the application. A GPS guided autopilot system provides what is referred to as autonomous flight, whereby the helicopter can be accurately placed and held anywhere with one meter of accuracy under autopilot control. The helicopter sends live video to two ground stations to aid in positioning and camera alignment.  This system is modular, and can be configured to handle other tasks such as videography, slung loads, etc. within a few days time.

    Below, the downlink stations: a pelican case station on the left, and Eric Fernandez wearing the portable control station on the right.

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