The long-term goal of DARPA’s Fast Lightweight Autonomy (FLA) program is to “explore non-traditional perception and autonomy methods that could enable a new class of algorithms for minimalistic high-speed navigation in cluttered environments.” In tests with its latest drone, it seems like the program has really got the high-speed part down pat.
The research group posted a new video of its sensor-loaded drone taking flight at a speed of 20 meters per second. This includes cameras and the ability for unmanned operation.
It almost looks faster from the drone’s perspective.
The drones also efficiently executed precise edging around obstacles.
….And also took some tumbles along the way.
Bumps or no, DARPA’s research could boost the intelligence and capabilities of drones, which could in turn help in emergency situations where humans might not be safe.
Plus: wow is it fast.
➤ DARPA
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