Stefan Leahu
Member
In the US drone/quadcopter groups there is a lot of talk about this being just a scare intended to push some tough regulations, including mandatory real-time internet reporting of drone fliights and severe distance limitations. Due to many older models not being capable or suited for this, and the FAA pushing this before standardized off-the-shelf emitters are available, this can be hobby-breaking.
On the other hand, the bewildering thing is that several drone owners , including one operating commercially (I'm looking through the fb groups and YouTube to find the quotes) have offered to help but have been refused by the FAA or at the very least they haven't been sought despite the sightings being in their area.
Depending on the frequency it operates on, it would be easy to see what kind of drone it is (DIY, off-the shelf etc) and in some cases even see the video feed (many operate in analog 5.8 or 2.4 GHz) . In the worst case, if they go in full radio silence and automated flight, there would at least be someone handling them on take-off and retrieving them. Given that it's reported as a drone swarm that comes at predictable hours and in the same general area, finding the operator would be just a question of time.
I can understant how the public can easily fall prey to this kind of mass hysteria. But having the authorities actively fuel the myth and refusing cooperation with the RC community which is more than willing to help, while the law enforcement is 'standing down' is a bit confusing. I mean, seriously, even with hobby grade stuff, it should not be too hard to find what they are and who's behind this, if there is anything there.
On the other hand, the bewildering thing is that several drone owners , including one operating commercially (I'm looking through the fb groups and YouTube to find the quotes) have offered to help but have been refused by the FAA or at the very least they haven't been sought despite the sightings being in their area.
Depending on the frequency it operates on, it would be easy to see what kind of drone it is (DIY, off-the shelf etc) and in some cases even see the video feed (many operate in analog 5.8 or 2.4 GHz) . In the worst case, if they go in full radio silence and automated flight, there would at least be someone handling them on take-off and retrieving them. Given that it's reported as a drone swarm that comes at predictable hours and in the same general area, finding the operator would be just a question of time.
I can understant how the public can easily fall prey to this kind of mass hysteria. But having the authorities actively fuel the myth and refusing cooperation with the RC community which is more than willing to help, while the law enforcement is 'standing down' is a bit confusing. I mean, seriously, even with hobby grade stuff, it should not be too hard to find what they are and who's behind this, if there is anything there.
