I saw my first UAV last night as it followed me up the street in Lancaster, PA. Does anyone know what type of unit this is or who would own one? I am guessing it was the police? I am curious.
1 Answer
This is a quadcopter, so called because it uses four rotors to generate lift. They are now made cheaply in China and can be purchased in most technology-related online shops. They are remotely controlled, so it is safe to assume that the owner was close, but not in plain view. It might have been the police, but it could as well be a hobbyist, taking his new toy out for a spin.
Since most units are equipped with a cheap webcam and a wireless link, I would guess he/she was sitting in front of a computer or using his/her smartphone for controlling the device and watching the camera stream.
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2$\begingroup$ There is one available (not quite the same unit) at my local Walmart for $80 USD. $\endgroup$ Commented Jun 21, 2014 at 15:37
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2$\begingroup$ The pilot could have actually been breaking some rules, without realizing it, if you are located within 3 miles of LNS (Lancaster airport). $\endgroup$ Commented Jun 21, 2014 at 15:44
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1$\begingroup$ At the time I was further than 3 miles away from LNS. $\endgroup$ Commented Jun 21, 2014 at 18:40
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1$\begingroup$ @CGCampbell: I've recently seen similar on an airport, apparently recording an air show. It was probably arranged with the organizers though. $\endgroup$ Commented Jun 21, 2014 at 21:12