This week in Drone News: An Airbus Zephyr UAS has been flying for 17 days so far, A Mavic 3 was shot down, NAAA cautions UAS operators for crop spraying operations, and Samsung\u2019s Airborne surveillance camera.
\nAn Airbus Zephyr S Solar powered UAV has been flying above Arizona for 17 days - So far\u2026
\nWhile not a small UAS, This goes to show how solar power could one day allow for perpetual operation of a UAV!
\nThe Zephyr S remained above the Sofa Wilderness and Yuma Test Range before flying to Belize.
\nIt\u2019s unclear how long the aircraft will remain airborne. During the testing of the Zephyr System in 2018, the aircraft flew for 28 days.
\nhttps://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/zephyr-high-flying-drone-has-been-up-for-17-days-as-part-of-army-test
\nAn investigation is ongoing in North Carolina, after a man\u2019s Mavic 3 was shot down during a family gathering.
\nThe pilot was taking pictures of the sunset when they heard 4 shots, and the aircraft fell out of the sky.
\nThe operator reported the incident to both local law enforcement and the FAA.
\nThe FAA stated \u201cA private citizen shooting at any aircraft \u2013 including unmanned aircraft \u2013 poses a significant safety hazard\u2026 Could crash, causing damage to persons or property on the ground, or it could collide with other objects in the air,\u201d said Elizabeth Cory (FAA).
\nhttps://dronexl.co/2022/07/06/dji-mavic-3-drone-shot-north-carolina/
\nSamsung has created a drone to provide overwatch in dark areas.
\nThis drone is designed to provide overwatch to people traveling through areas in cities that are poorly lit or have a high crime rate.
\nThe drone captures 360 degree video and can summon police if it detects a crime has been committed, and even can track the suspects.
\nhttps://www.yankodesign.com/2022/07/04/this-samsung-drone-wasnt-designed-for-consumers-it-was-designed-for-public-safety/
\nThe National Agricultural Aviation Association released a flyer cautioning UAS operators for upcoming agricultural operations
\nThis flyer advised the following
\nEquip UAV with Strobe Lights and Tracking Technology like and ADS-B out system
\nGet Certified and Trained in operating a UAV
\nFollow the law- Always give the right of way to manned aircraft
\nCoordinate with local aircraft operators about your UAV operations
\nCarry sufficient UAV liability insurance
\nhttps://agairupdate.com/2022/04/18/naaa-cautions-unmanned-aircraft-operators-not-to-interfere-with-low-altitude-manned-agricultural-aircraft-this-growing-season/