Nighttime Drone Operations Training at Pennhurst Asylum
 
By UAV Pilot Rick Rotondo
February 24, 2024
 

This past weekend, our UAV Team engaged in a collaborative training exercise with pilots from Pennsylvania Canine Search and Rescue (Pacsar), Upper Uwchlan Township Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police at Pennhurst. We tackled three distinct courses, scored according to the NIST quantitative standard. These courses were strategically designed to challenge us with various obstacles such as trees, power lines, buildings, and fencing, all under the cover of darkness. Additionally, we set up one NIST course specifically for nighttime orientation and familiarization. This intense session thoroughly tested the pilots' abilities and provided valuable experience in utilizing both thermal and optical cameras mounted on the drones. We are thankful to Pennhurst for allowing us access to their property for these important training exercises.

 
Units: Utility 77-2
 
Mutual Aid: Pennsylvania Canine Search and Rescue (Pacsar), Upper Uwchlan Township Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police