Definition of unmanned aerial vehicle

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Photonics Dictionary

unmanned aerial vehicle: An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), commonly known as a drone, is an aircraft without a human pilot onboard. UAVs are remotely controlled or autonomously operated, and they can be used for various purposes across different industries. These vehicles range in size from small hobbyist models to large military or commercial drones.

Key characteristics of unmanned aerial vehicles include:

Remotely piloted or autonomous: UAVs can be operated by a human pilot using a remote control system or, in some cases, they can operate autonomously through pre-programmed flight paths or real-time navigation systems.

Versatility: UAVs are used for a wide range of applications, including surveillance, reconnaissance, aerial photography, agriculture, environmental monitoring, search and rescue, package delivery, and military operations.

Size and types: UAVs come in various sizes and configurations, from small quadcopters and fixed-wing drones to large, long-endurance drones used in military surveillance.

Payload capabilities: Depending on their size and purpose, UAVs can carry different types of payloads, such as cameras, sensors, communication equipment, or even cargo.

Civilian and military use: While UAVs are commonly associated with military applications, they have gained popularity in civilian and commercial sectors for tasks like aerial photography, monitoring crops, surveying infrastructure, and more.

Regulations: Many countries have regulations in place to govern the operation of UAVs to ensure safety, security, and privacy. These regulations often include restrictions on altitude, flight zones, and licensing requirements for operators.

UAVs have become increasingly accessible and are used in a variety of industries due to their versatility, cost-effectiveness, and ability to access areas that may be challenging for manned aircraft or ground vehicles.

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