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Posts Tagged ‘drones’

Rogue drones cause chaos at London’s Gatwick international airport

21 Dec
Aircraft stands at the North Terminal — Martin Roell from Berlin, Germany CC BY-SA 2.0

London’s Gatwick airport has been in a state of perpetual disruption since Wednesday, December 19, after ‘rogue drones’ forced officials to close down the runways. According to Transport Secretary Chris Grayling, the drones would reappear each time officials attempted to reopen the runaway, leaving the airport in a state of ‘chaos.’

Grayling explained to the press that officials were dealing with a ‘very serious ongoing incident in which substantial drones have been used to bring about the temporary closure of a major international airport.’

Gatwick was forced to ground flights around 4PM ET / 2100 GMT after two drones were seen flying in the airport’s airfield. More than 20 police units are searching for the individual(s) responsible for the drones, according to Reuters, and The Guardian now reports that Army officials have responded to aid with the situation.

Eurocontrol, the European aviation agency, at this time states that Gatwick will not reopen until 10PM local time at the earliest. Though police sharpshooters are on site, they were not authorized to shoot down the drones due to the risk of a stray bullet causing injury. Tens of thousands of passengers traveling over the holiday season have been impacted by the closure and more than 800 flights have been cancelled.

Gatwick airport chief executive Stewart Wingate has released a statement on the matter, saying in part:

Although not for today, these events obviously highlight a wider strategic challenge for aviation in this country which we need to address together with speed – the aviation industry, Government and all the other relevant authorities. It cannot be right that drones can close a vital part of our national infrastructure in this way. This is obviously a relatively new technology and we need to think through together the right solutions to make sure it cannot happen again.

Nations around the world have scrambled to develop regulations covering consumer drones and the potential risks they pose, including possible damage to commercial aircraft. Many countries have restricted the use of drones in the airspace near and above airports to avoid collisions during takeoff and landing.

Earlier this year, the University of Dayton Research Institute published a controversial video showing the damage a small drone caused to an airplane wing in a simulated environment. Though there haven’t been any substantial incidents resulting from drone-plane collisions, there was a helicopter crash earlier this year that may have resulted from a wayward drone.

A number of methods for deterring and capturing unauthorized drones have been developed, but few are in use. Existing methods include net-based drone take-down launchers and systems that disrupt a drone’s ability to communicate with its operator. No single, universal, rapidly deployable system has been developed, however.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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AirMap announces real-time geofencing alerts on Android, iOS for DJI drones

11 Dec

Airspace management company AirMap announced the release of real-time geofencing alerts in its AirMap for Drones mobile app available for iOS and Android devices.

The new feature alerts pilots visually and/or verbally when their drone is approaching airspace that is unsafe or areas where drone flying is not permitted. AirMap uses data from organizations such as civil aviation authorities, air navigation service providers and local authorities to build its databases and airspace maps.

AirMap says real-time geofencing will soon get the ability to prevent drones from entering unsafe operating area or leaving its flight path, instead of just sending out alerts. Pilots will have to opt in to activate this function.

In addition to implementing real-time geofencing alerts in its own app, AirMap is also making the feature available to other developers and OEMs as a mobile SDK for iOS and Android, allowing them to ‘to build services enhancing flight safety, compliance and overall experience for their users.’

Real-time geofencing alerts are currently only available for users of DJI drones when operating in the AirMap for Drones fly mode. More information can be found on the AirMap website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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DPReview Buying Guide: Best compacts, drones and phones

26 Nov

These days, getting great images doesn’t have to mean buying a large, heavy interchangeable lens camera. In these buying guides, we’re offering our recommendations for the best compact cameras, camera drones and smartphones.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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DJI drones temporarily banned in UK after reports of them falling from the sky

01 Nov

The UK’s Civil Aviation Authority has banned a number of DJI drones from flights over human beings as investigations are carried out into the cause of some models falling out of the sky. Matrice 200 series models and the Inspire 2 have had temporary flying restrictions applied to them as they use the DJI TB50 and TB55 battery packs that are suspected of failing mid-flight.

The authority states that “a small number of incidents have been recently reported where the aircraft has suffered a complete loss of power during flight, despite indications that there was sufficient battery time still remaining.” While the drones in these incidents themselves have suffered damage from the incidents no third-party persons or property has been affected as a result.

The cause of the fault remains unclear at the moment, and not all of these models of drone seem to suffer from it, but investigators believe the common link is the batteries in use. DJI itself is advising customers to ‘fly with caution’ when using drones that use these batteries as it says they can show incorrect power levels. The company suggests users follow the guidance of the CAA ‘out of an abundance of caution’, and say they are working on firmware to fix the problem.

In addition to the temporary ban on flights over people the CAA has also suspended permissions to fly these models:

  • over or within 150 metres of any congested area;
  • within 50 metres of any persons;
  • within 50 metres of any, vessel, vehicle or structure which is not under the control of the SUA Operator or remote pilot of the SUA;
  • over or within 150 metres of an open air assembly of more than 1,000 persons; or
  • using EVLOS

DJI seems to have suspended sales on its website of the Matrice 200 series models. For more information see the DJI newsroom, and the CAA website.

CAA Safety Notice:

Civil Aviation Authority
SAFETY NOTICE
Number: SN–2018/009

Small Unmanned Aircraft

Issued: 31 October 2018

DJI Battery TB50 and TB55 In-Flight Power Failures

This Safety Notice contains recommendations regarding operational safety.
Recipients must ensure that this Notice is copied to all members of their staff who need to take appropriate action or who may have an interest in the information (including any ‘in-house’ or contracted maintenance organisations and relevant outside contractors).

2 Introduction
2.1 This Safety Notice supersedes and revokes Safety Notice SN–2018/008.

2.2 This Safety Notice applies to operators of multi-rotor small unmanned aircraft utilising DJI battery model TB50 or TB55, including all DJI Matrice 200 series (which includes the 200, 210 and 210 RTK platforms) and the DJI Inspire 2 (the “Affected SUA”).

2.3 A small number of incidents have been recently reported where the aircraft has suffered a complete loss of power during flight, despite indications that there was sufficient battery time still remaining. In each case, this resulted in the aircraft falling directly to the ground due to the immediate loss of lift with the remote pilot unable to control its subsequent flight path. The small unmanned aircraft were damaged upon impact, but the CAA has not received any reports of injuries to people or other property.

2.4 Investigation by the manufacturer has confirmed that this issue is not confined to any specific firmware version and is thought to be related to the batteries TB50 and TB55. The full details of the occurrences are still being investigated.

2.5 The purpose of this Safety Notice is to highlight the requirement for the SUA operator and/or remote pilot to be reasonably satisfied that the flight can be safely made (Air Navigation Order 2016 (ANO) article 94(2)), restrict overflight of persons at any height and to temporarily limit the scope of any operational authorisations issued to operators of the Affected SUA.

Civil Aviation Authority Safety Notice SN–2018/009

3 Compliance/Action to be Taken
3.1 This Safety Notice requires the following actions to be taken:

a) Provisional Suspension of Operations

i) In accordance with Air Navigation Order article 257 and 257(2)(c) operators of Affected SUA are hereby directed not to permit any flight that involves overflight of any persons at any height until further notice.

ii) In accordance with Air Navigation Order article 253, any element of a permission based on an Operational Safety Case (OSC), issued by the CAA to an SUA operator which permits the operation of an Affected SUA to be operated:

* over or within 150 metres of any congested area;
* within 50 metres of any persons;
* within 50 metres of any, vessel, vehicle or structure which is not under the control of the SUA Operator or remote pilot of the SUA;
* over or within 150 metres of an open air assembly of more than 1,000 persons; or
* using EVLOS

is provisionally suspended until further notice.

iii) These limitations will be subject to regular review. As soon as further updates have been obtained from the manufacturer, and the CAA is satisfied that this has been addressed in a satisfactory manner, the CAA will then issue a further update via the SkyWise alerts portal on the CAA website.

b) Emergency Services Operations

i) Due to the unique nature of emergency services operations, the privileges contained within General Exemption E 4506 (ORS4 No. 1233) may continue to be exercised whilst using the Affected SUA, provided that the potential risks highlighted in this Safety Notice have been considered within the decision to proceed and the overflight of uninvolved persons is minimised.

4 Queries
4.1 Any queries or requests for further guidance as a result of this communication should be addressed to the following e-mail address: uavenquiries@caa.co.uk, with the subject line ‘Safety Notice – DJI Battery TB50 and TB55 In-Flight Power Failures’.

5 Cancellation
5.1 This Safety Notice will remain in force until further notice

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Tiffen launches line of filter kits for DJI Mavic, Inspire drones

23 Oct

Tiffen Filters has announced a new collection of drone-specific filter kits for DJI’s latest offerings.

The filters kits are available for the the DJI Mavic 2 Zoom, DJI Mavic 2 Pro, DJI Mavic Air, and DJI Inspire 2 drones, adding to the filters Tiffen already offers for the Phantom series. Tiffen says the filters have “a multilayer and hydrophobic coating” that’s waterproof, resistant to scratches, and “guarantee[s]” ultra-low reflection rates.

“Drone operators will have the opportunity to capture in flight content like never before,” says Tiffen in its press release. “When used in conjunction with the award winning filter technology engineered by Tiffen, the high quality performance of the DJI 4K camera system is taken to the next level, broadening the horizons for content creation.”

The pricing of the filter kits is a bit confusing, so below is a collection of charts detailing the kits available for each drone:

Mavic Air
3 Filter Kit — $ 49.95
6 Filter Kit — $ 99.95
ND4
ND4 — ND4/PL
ND8
ND8 — ND8/PL
ND16
ND16 — ND16/PL
Mavic 2 Zoom
3 Filter Kit — $ 79.95
6 Filter Kit — $ 149.95
ND4
ND4 — ND4/PL
ND8
ND8 — ND8/PL
ND16
ND16 — ND16/PL
Mavic Pro
3 Filter Kit — $ 99.95
6 Filter Kit — $ 179.95
ND4
ND4 — ND4/PL
ND8
ND8 — ND8/PL
ND16
ND16 — ND16/PL
Inspire 2
3 Filter Kit — $ 99.95
6 Filter Kit — $ 199.95
ND4
ND4 — ND4/PL
ND8
ND8 — ND8/PL
ND16
ND16 — ND16/PL

The filters are listed on Tiffen’s website as “coming soon.” Each filter kit will come with a ten-year warranty, meaning these will likely outlast the life of your drone. To find out more, head on over to Tiffen’s Aerial Collection page.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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What you need to know about DJI’s new Mavic 2 series drones

26 Aug

Two new Mavics

DJI’s orignial Mavic Pro became tremendously popular thanks to an impressive set of features shoehorned into a foldable drone that seemed almost purpose-built for travel. However, two of the most frequent requests from Mavic Pro users have been to upgrade the camera with a larger 1″ sensor, similar to the one found on the Phantom 4 Pro/Advanced twins, and to make a model with a zoom lens.

It appears that DJI was listening to its customers, offering its new Mavic 2 model in two versions: the Mavic 2 Pro includes a camera with a 1″-type sensor and the Mavic 2 Zoom ships with a 2x optical (4x digital) zoom lens, effectively delivering on both requests. Physically, the two models are identical except for the camera module and as a nice touch both include 8GB of internal storage: perfect for that time when you’ll eventually forget to bring a memory card with you.

On the following pages, we’ll take a look at what sets these two models apart, along with some of the headline features that they have in common.

Mavic 2 Pro

The Mavic 2 Pro will appeal to those who want a portable drone, but who have been waiting for a camera with a larger sensor. Its camera is built around a 20MP 1″-type sensor, similar to the one found on the Phantom 4 Pro/Advanced models. It uses a 28mm equiv. lens (compared to 24mm on the P4 Pro and 26mm on the Mavic Pro) with a F2.8-F11 aperture range.

This is the first DJI consumer drone to feature a Hasselblad-branded camera, which the company says was “co-engineered in partnership with Hasselblad.” (Though it’s not the first time DJI as put a Hasselblad on one of its aircraft.) We’re not sure to what degree Hasselblad was actually involved in the camera’s design, however we’re optimistic that the Hasselblad name means that DJI has set a high bar for image quality. DJI says it’s using Hasselblad Natural Color Solution (HNCS) technology to ensure good color accuracy.

The Mavic 2 Pro also has a couple features not found on the zoom model: 10-bit Dlog-M color profile and 4K 10-bit HDR support using hybrid log gamma (HLG) for use on HDR TVs and displays.

Mavic 2 Zoom

The Mavic 2 Zoom uses a 12MP, 1/2.3″ CMOS sensor similar to the original Mavic Pro, but adds a 2x optical zoom lens with an equivalent range of 24-48mm. If you need to zoom further, a 2x digital zoom extends the range to 96mm, though video is limited to HD resolution when it’s used.

DJI says that improvements in its hybrid AF system (phase detect + contrast detect) allow this model to focus up to 40% faster than previous models while still benefiting from improved focus accuracy.

The Mavic 2 Zoom’s lens also enables a couple features not found on the Mavic 2 Pro: Dolly Zoom mode and Super Resolution mode. We’ll take a look at those next.

Dolly Zoom

A dolly zoom is a camera technique you’ve probably seen in films before, and was popularized by directors like Alfred Hitchcock. It’s performed by physically moving the camera away from your subject while using the lens to zoom in at a rate that exactly offsets the camera’s movement. (Or vice versa.) It results in a shot in which the perspective shifts around an apparently unmoving subject.

The Mavic 2 Zoom includes a Dolly Zoom mode that coordinates the movement of the camera and zoom lens to automate dolly zoom moves, opening the door to produce some very creative shots.

Super Resolution

Above: Super Resolution image of New York City captured by the Mavic 2 Zoom. Courtesy of DJI

In addition to 12MP still photos, the Mavic 2 Zoom can also create ‘Super Resolution’ images. Using its optical zoom lens, the drone will automatically shoot 9 overlapping photos which it automatically stitches together to create a much more detailed 48MP image.

Of course, it’s possible to create your own Super Resolution images from any camera using a series of images and some post processing, but the extra telephoto reach from the zoom lens should allow the Mavic 2 Zoom to capture a bit more fine detail of distant subjects, while automating a process many users might not bother to do manually. We look forward to seeing how well this feature works.

Video

Despite having very different cameras, both Mavic 2 models share very similar video specifications. Both can capture UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) up to 30p, 2.7K up to 60p, and HD up to 120p, and video can be recorded using either H.264 or H.265 codecs at up to 100Mbps.

Noticeably absent is support for 4K/60p recording, which is available on the older Phantom 4 Pro/Advanced twins, as well as support for cinema DCI 4K (4096 x 2160), found on both the Phantom 4 Pro/Advanced and the original Mavic Pro.

As mentioned previously, the Mavic 2 Pro also includes a 10-bit Dlog-M color profile and supports 4K 10-bit hybrid log gamma. The Mavic 2 Zoom includes DJI’s D-Cinelike color mode.

HyperLapse Mode

Creating cinematic camera moves with a drone can be challenging without a lot of practice, which is why intelligent flight modes can be so useful. The Mavic 2 drones introduce a new HyperLapse feature designed to show the passage of time, and includes four different ways to direct the motion of the drone.

‘Circle’ mode automatically flies the drone in a circular pattern around your subject, ‘Course Lock’ keeps the camera fixed on a subject as the drone flies in a straight line, and ‘Waypoint’ allows you to plan a flight path using both GPS coordinates and altitudes to set up complex shots. Finally, there’s a ‘Free’ mode in which the pilot can fly the drone manually while it takes photos.

DJI says HyperLapse shots can be shared immediately to social media, but the drone also saves the JPEG and Raw files in case you want to do your own processing later.

ActiveTrack 2.0

The Mavic 2 series also benefits from DJI’s ActiveTrack 2.0, the newest version of its autonomous subject tracking system, which works in conjunction with the obstacle avoidance system to prevent collisions.

ActiveTrack 2.0 uses the main camera and front dual vision cameras to create a 3D map of the area in front of the aircraft, and it analyzes motion to predict the path of a subject up to three seconds in advance, which should improve tracking accuracy. DJI claims the system will even continue to follow your subject if it’s temporarily blocked from view by something else in the frame.

Smarter flying

The Mavic 2 models have an updated version of DJI’s FlightAutonomy system that uses 10 sensors around the drone which combine to detect obstacles in any direction, and an improved version of DJI’s APAS (Advanced Pilot Assistance System) analyzes the environment surrounding the aircraft so that it can fly without stopping. This should allow users to focus more on the creative process, such as framing a shot, without the drone drifting into something.

There’s also a new bottom auxiliary light that activates automatically when landing in low light situations, such as dawn or dusk, to ensure safe landings under such conditions.

OcuSync 2.0

DJI has also updated its OcuSync video transmission system to version 2.0. According to DJI, OcuSync 2.0 is more effective at resisting interference, supports both 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz bands, and includes auto-switching capability. It can even use the different frequencies to separate uplink and downlink data streams.

OcuSync 2.0 allows the Mavic 2 to transmit live 1080p video up to a claimed distance of 8km, and thanks to this improved transmission users will have immediate access to full HD video clips from the cache in the DJI app. It’s also possible to save original resolution JPEG files directly to your mobile device for immediate sharing, without needing to transfer image files from the aircraft.

Hardware and performance

Above: The Mavic 2 (left) next to the Mavic Air (right).

The original Mavic Pro became popular thanks to its compact size and weight. The new Mavic 2 models weigh in higher than the original (907g/2lb vs. 734g/1.6lb). However, DJI says that the new design also reduces body drag by up to 19% compared to the Mavic Pro. In fact, despite being slightly larger, the Mavic 2s have a respectable flight time of 31 minutes.

Both models can fly up to 72 kph (44 mph) in sport mode, making them useful for following some quickly moving subjects, though maybe not that Ferrari you’ve been meaning to shoot.

DJI claims that the Mavic 2s also use a more efficient, quieter propulsion system and noise reducing propellers to keep noise to a minimum. This is good news, especially since noise has been a bit of a sore point for some users of DJI’s recently released Mavic Air.

Price and availability

The Mavic 2 Pro retails for $ 1499, while the Mavic 2 Zoom is $ 1199. That’s still more than the current prices for the older Mavic Pro ($ 999) and smaller Mavic Air ($ 799), and more in line with the Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 ($ 1499) and Phantom 4 Advanced ($ 1199), both of which have 1-inch type sensors, but lack the compact foldability of the Mavic 2s.

Assuming you need some additional accessories, it’s probably worth considering DJI’s ‘Fly More’ kit, which includes two additional batteries, a multi-battery charging hub, a car charger, a battery to power bank adapter, extra props, and a case for $ 319. Extra batteries on their own will cost you $ 119 each.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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DJI releases highly anticipated Mavic 2 Pro and Mavic 2 Zoom compact drones

23 Aug
DJI has announced the Mavic 2 Pro, featuring a 1-inch type CMOS sensor (left), and the Mavic 2 Zoom, which includes a 2x optical zoom lens (right).

Drone manufacturer DJI has announced the arrival of two new drones to its Mavic series: the Mavic 2 Pro and the Mavic 2 Zoom.

The Mavic 2 Pro is the first drone with an integrated Hasselblad camera—a project that the companies collaborated on for the last two years. The Mavic 2 Pro utilizes a newly redesigned 1-inch CMOS sensor and 10-bit Dlog-M color profile, which allows the Mavic 2 Pro to capture four times the level of color as its predecessor, the Mavic Pro. The drone can shoot 20-megapixel images, has an ISO sensitivity of 100-6400, an aperture range of F2.8 to F11 and shoots 4K video with 10-bit HDR.

Mavic 2 Pro sample video. Courtesy of DJI

The Mavic 2 Zoom is the first consumer-oriented drone with zooming capabilities. It offers users a 2x optical zoom (24mm-48mm) and a 2x digital zoom (49mm-96mm) and can capture lossless video in full HD resolution. It’s built around a redesigned 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, can shoot 12-megapixel images, has an ISO range of 100-3200 and improved focusing speed thanks to its upgraded phase and contrast detection.

A new auto mode on the Mavic 2 Zoom, called Super Resolution, uses the drone’s optical zoom to shoot nine individual images of a scene and then automatically stitch them together into a 48-megapixel photo. The drone’s zooming capabilities have led to new video modes too. Dolly Zoom QuickShot allows videographers to quickly replicate cinematic techniques popularized by folks like Hitchcock, where the camera zooms in on a subject while moving backwards.

The Mavic 2 Zoom can automatically create dolly zoom effects by coordinating the drone’s movement while adjusting the focal length of the lens. Courtesy of DJI

The bodies of the two new models are identical, and are slightly larger than the original Mavic Pro; like the orginal, they also fold down for easy transport. Both are equipped with omnidirectional sensors that can track the drone’s movements left, right, up, down, forward and backward, utilize a 3-axis mechanical stabilization and feature new auxiliary lights on the bottom to help with landing and flying in low-light situations (like dusk and dawn). A redesigned winglet and new motors make the two drones quieter than earlier models.

Example of a ‘Super Resolution’ photo, in which the Mavic 2 Zoom automatically stitches together 9 individual photos to create a high resolution image. Courtesy of DJI

Both models can record at a maximum bitrate of 100 Mbps using H.265 compression, include 8GB of internal storage, and can capture 4K video at up to 30fps as well as HD video up to 120fps. Each has a respectable flight time of 31 minutes.

The new drones also feature updated intelligent flight modes like Hyperlapse and ActiveTrack 2.0, which can now avoid obstacles and continuously track subjects thanks to the 10 sensors found on each drone. OcuSync also gets an update and help keeps the controller and the drone in communication—the Mavic 2 drones can transmit 1080p video up to five miles away from the controller.

The Mavic 2 Pro will retail for $ 1449, while the Mavic 2 Zoom will retail for $ 1249. Both models are available today from DJI.

Press release:

DJI Introduces Mavic 2 Pro And Mavic 2 Zoom: A New Era For Camera Drones

Mavic 2 Series Features Two Industry First Camera Options With New Intelligent Features And Optimized Flight Performance

August 23, 2018 – DJI, the world’s leader in civilian drones and aerial imaging technology, today introduced a new era for camera drones with two additions to its iconic Mavic series: Mavic 2 Pro, the world’s first drone with an integrated Hasselblad camera, and Mavic 2 Zoom, the world’s first foldable consumer drone with optical zoom capability.

The Mavic 2 is the most advanced DJI camera drone ever built, designed for professionals, aerial photographers and content creators. Incorporating the iconic folding design of the world’s most popular Mavic Pro, the Mavic 2 is a powerful platform with new gimbal-stabilized cameras and advanced intelligent features like Hyperlapse and ActiveTrack for easier and more dynamic storytelling. With an impressive flight time of up to 31 minutes and a more stable video transmission system, Mavic 2 delivers the optimal flight experience for capturing epic shots.

“When the Mavic Pro was launched two years ago, it redefined the way people looked at a drone and expanded possibilities for creators around the world,” said Roger Luo, President at DJI. “Today, we enter a new era of aerial photography with the introduction of DJI’s new flagship product, the Mavic 2 series. The Mavic 2 Pro and Mavic 2 Zoom will enable photographers and videographers to take their inspirations to the air quickly and elevate their creative ideas to new heights.”

Mavic 2 Pro: Superior Image Quality with Hasselblad

Co-engineered in partnership with Hasselblad, the world’s leader in medium format photography, the Mavic 2 Pro is the world’s first drone with an integrated Hasselblad camera for outstanding image quality with superior light and color performance. Housing a 1-inch CMOS sensor with a 10-bit Dlog-M color profile, the camera captures four times as many levels of color per channel compared to Mavic Pro to provide maximum flexibility for photo and video editing. The Mavic 2 Pro can capture 20-megapixel aerial shots with utmost color accuracy using Hasselblad’s unique Hasselblad Natural Color Solution (HNCS) technology, while an adjustable aperture from f/2.8-f/11 provides more control across a wide variety of lighting conditions. With 4K 10-bit HDR support, the Mavic 2 Pro can be plugged into a 4K TV with HLG and will play back footage with the right color tones.

Mavic 2 Zoom: A Dynamic Perspective with Optical and Digital Zoom

Powered by a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, the Mavic 2 Zoom is DJI’s first foldable consumer drone with zoom, providing a dynamic perspective that ushers in a new era of creative storytelling. With the Mavic 2 Zoom, you can get closer to your subject at a moment’s notice by combining two-times optical zoom (24-48mm) with two-times digital zoom to simulate a 96mm telephoto lens that captures lossless video in full HD resolution. Hybrid auto-focus on the Mavic 2 Zoom combines phase and contrast detection for higher focus accuracy with an increased focus speed of up to 40% faster than before. Shoot vivid 12-megapixel photos or take advantage of the new Super Resolution feature that uses optical zoom to automatically capture and stitch nine photos together for a highly detailed 48-megapixel image, making it an ideal option for landscape photography.

Exclusive to the Mavic 2 Zoom, the new Dolly Zoom QuickShot mode opens a new visual language for storytelling that was previously reserved for professional cinematographers. It creates an otherworldly warped perspective by automatically zooming in as it flies away from its subject, keeping the subject the same size while the full background of the scene is revealed.

Mavic 2 Series: DJI’s New Flagship Consumer Drone with Powerful Camera Options

Both cameras capture vivid 4K ultra-high definition video with extreme detail, recording at a maximum bitrate of 100 megabits per second using the H.265 compression codec to give you an exceptional degree of latitude in post-production workflows. For photographers, new Enhanced High Dynamic Range capabilities blend a sequence of photos for ghost-free high dynamic range, giving the Mavic 2 Pro an impressive 14 stops of dynamic range and Mavic 2 Zoom up to 13 stops.

New Intelligent Tools For Epic, Cinematic Shots

The Mavic 2 is the ultimate tool for aerial content creation with new intelligent flight modes that make capturing professional-quality results almost effortless. A new Hyperlapse feature produces establishing shots that show the passing of time, which you can share to social media immediately. JPEG and RAW photos can be simultaneously saved on a Micro SD card or the internal storage, leaving more room for post editing. Choose between Circle, Course Lock, Waypoint or Free mode to create timelapses with a simple tap of a button in the DJI GO 4 Mobile App:

  • Free – pilots the drone manually while shooting a Hyperlapse video.
  • Circle – automatically flies the drone in a circular pattern around a subject you select to create a timelapse video that captures the action.
  • Course Lock – keeps the camera fixed on shooting subject while the drone flies in a straight direction to create a unique perspective.
  • Waypoint – plans a complex flight path based on both altitude and GPS coordinates to capture complex shots.

Keeping a moving subject in the frame is now easier than ever with ActiveTrack 2.0. This enhanced auto-track feature delivers a powerful combination of autonomous tracking and obstacle sensing capabilities never before seen in a DJI drone. Using the main camera and the front dual vision cameras, the Mavic 2 creates a three-dimensional map of the area in front of it, and uses new trajectory algorithms to analyze motion and predict the subject’s path up to three seconds in the future. When tracking a target, the Mavic 2 can recognize and avoid obstacles while shooting your target without interruption. It can stay on target, even if your subject momentarily goes behind an obstacle, and can track the subject at higher speeds of up to 44 mph (72 km/h).

Safer, Smarter and Stable Flight

The Mavic 2 delivers autonomous flight capabilities that help you capture shots with even more confidence in complex environments. A fully upgraded FlightAutonomy system transmits data to a more powerful central processor for more accurate obstacle sensing and safer flight. For the first time ever in a DJI drone, Mavic 2 has 10 sensors on all sides of the aircraft to automatically detect obstacles in its path and help prevent collisions, allowing you to focus on capturing the perfect shot.

An improved Advanced Pilot Assistance System (APAS) allows the aircraft to analyze its surrounding environment and automatically fly around obstacles without stopping. In addition, the Mavic 2 has a Bottom Auxiliary Light that turns on automatically to ensure safe and precise landings in low-light situations.

A newly designed OcuSync 2.0 video transmission system enables a more stable connection between the drone and its remote controller. The system features stronger interference resistance and auto-switching capabilities that supports both 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz frequency bands with the capability to use different frequencies for uplink and downlink data streams. It delivers 1080p video transmission feeds at a distance of up to 8km, allowing you to instantly edit and upload Full HD footage directly from the video cache in the DJI app in a wider variety of situations. Original resolution photos in JPEG can be saved directly to your mobile device, so you can immediately share what you create without the need to transfer files from the drone.

Aerodynamic Design and Extended Flight Time

The Mavic 2’s redesigned, more aerodynamic airframe reduces body drag by up to 19% compared to the Mavic Pro, allowing the Mavic 2 to fly at speeds of up to 44 mph (72 km/h) in Sport mode. Combined with a more efficient, quieter propulsion system and noise reducing propellers, the Mavic 2 has a maximum flight time of up to 31 minutes.

To ensure crisp photos and smooth, shake-free footage, the Mavic 2 houses an ultra-precise three-axis mechanical gimbal to stabilize its camera even during high-speed motion. Photos and videos can be saved directly to the drone using its 8 GB onboard storage. All DJI users have control over how their data is stored and managed, as part of DJI’s commitment to protecting its customers’ data.

A redesigned remote controller features detachable control sticks for ease of storage and portability. The Mavic 2 is compatible with DJI Goggles with the gimbal (yaw) control range up to -75°¬– +75° in Head Tracking mode, offering users a more immersive FPV flight experience.

Price and Availability

The US retail price of a Mavic 2 Pro, including the drone, battery, remote controller, charger, and four pairs of propellers, is $ 1,499 USD. The US retail price of a Mavic 2 Zoom, including the drone, battery, charger, remote controller and four pairs of propellers, is $ 1,199 USD. A Fly More Kit, including two additional batteries, a multi-battery charging hub, a car charger, a battery to power bank adapter, two pairs of propellers and a carrying bag, retails at $ 319 USD. A gimbal replacement service exclusively for Mavic 2, will be available soon.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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DJI Mavic 2 drones leak with Zoom and Pro model variants

31 Jul

DJI will release two variants of its upcoming Mavic 2 drone, according to a leaked product listing. The Mavic 2, which hasn’t been officially announced, appeared in a catalog issued by UK retailer Argos, which lists two model variants: the Mavic 2 Pro and Mavic 2 Zoom.

The catalog listing, which was shared on Twitter by Brett Thake, describes the DJI Mavic 2 as a small drone with a 45mph / 72kph top speed, 31-minute max flight time, omni-directional obstacle sensing with APAS and Active Track 2.0, and an 8km / 5-mile transmission range, including 1080p video transmission. The Mavic 2 Pro is described as having a 1-inch CMOS Hasselblad camera, while the Mavic 2 Zoom variant advertises a 24-48mm equiv. 2x optical zoom.

DJI confirmed the leak in a statement to CNET, explaining that catalog was preprinted and scheduled before July 18, the date DJI originally planned to launch the Mavic 2

Assuming the catalog details are correct, this represents a significant upgrade from the original Mavic Pro and Pro Platinum. In particular, a 1-inch CMOS sensor should deliver significantly better performance than the 1/2.3″ sensor found in the earlier models, and has been one of the most frequently requested features from users.

Additionally, The Verge is reporting that users will be able to switch lenses on the camera.

The new models will also see an increase in flight time from 27 minutes to 31 minutes, as well as a top speed increase from 40mph to 45mph. Pricing information was not leaked by the catalog, but it does feature a partial image of the two drone variants.

DJI confirmed the leak in a statement to CNET, explaining that catalog was preprinted and scheduled before July 18, the date DJI originally planned to launch the Mavic 2. The event was ultimately postponed, but Argos apparently didn’t get the memo, proceeding with publication of the catalog including the Mavic 2 details. We’ve reached out to DJI for a statement and will update this article with any new information.

“This early look just hints at the many exciting features and capabilities DJI will announce at the proper time,” the company said in its statement.

Via: DroneDJ

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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DJI launches Zenmuse XT2 4K visual and thermal camera for enterprise drones

30 Mar

DJI has teamed up with FLIR Systems to launch the Zenmuse XT2, its newest thermal camera for drones. As with the original XT model launched in 2015, the XT2 captures heat signatures to reveal things otherwise invisible to the naked eye. On-board FLIR MSX tech combines both the heat data and visual data from the camera into a single image for easier object identification.

The model features a 12MP 4K visual camera with a 1/1.7″ CMOS sensor (up to 8x digital zoom) and two different thermal resolutions: 336 x 256 (up to 4x digital zoom) and 640 x 512 (up to 8x digital zoom). It also sports 9mm, 13mm, 19mm, and 25mm lenses, and an IP44 rating for flights in fog, rain, snow, and smoke.

DJI’s Spotlight Pro tech utilizes both HeatTrack and QuickTrack flight modes to automatically track objects while the operator concentrates on incoming data and flight operations.

The Zenmuse XT2 thermal camera is designed for use in search and rescue operations, to perform industrial inspections, and more. The camera is compatible with the DJI Matrice 600 Pro and Matrice 200 Series enterprise drones; support will arrive first in the Android app followed later on by the iOS app.

Authorized DJI Enterprise dealers around the globe are now offering the Zenmuse XT2 thermal camera, but DJI hasn’t revealed the price. FLIR is accepting quote requests from potential customers, though.

Press Release

DJI Gives Drones More Power For Commercial Use

Zenmuse XT2 Thermal Camera And Payload SDK Transform DJI’s Drones Into Specialized Platforms For Any Industrial Purpose Including Inspections, Public Safety And Saving Lives

DJI, the world’s leader in civilian drones and aerial imaging technology, unveiled new technology and tools to customize its enterprise drone platforms for specialized tasks such as infrastructure inspection, precision agriculture, firefighting and search and rescue.

The new Zenmuse XT2 thermal imaging camera, created in partnership with FLIR Systems, is a critical tool for drone operators to capture heat signatures invisible to the naked eye. Its side-by-side visual and thermal imaging sensors provide unparalleled data capture and situational awareness during emergency services, disaster recovery and industrial inspection uses. DJI’s powerful new Payload Software Development Kit (SDK) allows innovative drone startups, developers, and sensor and device manufacturers to easily integrate custom cameras, sensors and other types of payloads onto DJI drones, unlocking the true potential of drone technology for businesses, governments and researchers around the world.

“The Zenmuse XT2 continues our longstanding partnership with FLIR to create the most powerful thermal imaging solution available on a drone today. This is a significant advancement for public safety professionals who are using drones to save lives and creating new industrial applications across different verticals,” said Jan Gasparic, Head of Enterprise Partnerships at DJI. “Our new Payload SDK makes it possible for any manufacturer to create a payload specific to their customers’ needs that will work seamlessly with DJI’s aircraft. We believe these two advances will not only strengthen DJI’s leadership in the commercial drone industry, but will also provide a powerful, flexible and standardized platform which customers from different industries can build upon.”

Intelligent Thermal Data for Critical Missions

The Zenmuse XT2 is a powerful thermal imaging camera that transforms data into actionable insights. Its gimbal-stabilized, dual-sensor design combines an advanced FLIR® radiometric thermal imager and a 4K visual camera to allow drone operators to view thermal and visual data while in flight, delivering an unmatched level of versatility and image detail for high-performance uses from industrial inspections to public safety operations.

Professional drone operators can use on-board intelligent features like FLIR MSX® technology to combine visual and temperature data into one image, allowing operators to easily identify objects of concern. DJI’s unique Spotlight Pro features let operators focus on safe flight operations and data interpretation while the camera automatically tracks an object through two intelligent flight modes: QuickTrack centers the camera on the selected area while HeatTrack automatically tracks the hottest object in view. The Temp Alarm feature interprets thermal data in real-time and alerts drone operators when an object’s temperature exceeds critical thresholds.

“We are excited to continue our collaboration with DJI to develop sensors for their industry leading drone platforms,” said Frank Pennisi, President of the Industrial Business Unit at FLIR Systems. “The Zenmuse XT2 uses a radiometric thermal imaging camera core to capture accurate temperature data for every pixel, ensuring that drone operators have access to as much information as possible during critical and often lifesaving missions.”

The Zenmuse XT2 is compatible with DJI’s Matrice 200 Series and Matrice 600 Pro enterprise drones. It will be first available for the DJI Pilot mobile app for Android and later for the DJI XT Pro mobile app for iOS devices. Its rugged design and IP44 ingress protection rating gives it versatility to be flown in a wide variety of conditions including rain, snow, smoke and fog[1]. With a 12-megapixel visual camera, it is available in two thermal sensor resolutions of 640 x 512 or 336 x 256, with 9mm, 13mm, 19mm, and 25mm lenses.

For more information on the Zenmuse XT2, please visit: dji.com/zenmuse-xt2.

The Future of Commercial Drone Customization

DJI’s new Payload SDK enables non-DJI cameras, sensors, and payloads like air-to-ground communications tools and devices to be mounted and integrated directly into DJI’s Matrice 200 Series drones. By opening this layer of DJI’s core technology to the commercial drone ecosystem, any manufacturer, developer or researcher can create a drone that is customized for a specific purpose or industry.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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This video explains the science behind how camera drones fly

26 Jan

The folks at WIRED have put together a great video for the science nerds among us—and I do have a feeling there are a few. The video, which is part of WIRED’s Dot Physics series, explains the physics behind drone flight; in other words: how that new DJI Mavic Air and quadcopters like it are able to hover, move in three dimensions, and rotate all by changing the speed at which various propellers spin.

This explains why your quadcopter doesn’t need any other sort of physical controls, just four propellers—two spinning clockwise, two spinning counterclockwise—that change the rate at which they spin based on signals from your remote control.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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