An autonomous helicopter used to fly above nuclear disasters

Unmanned Systems Laboratory developed a helicopter robot that can fly above disaster areas after nuclear attacks or accidents, or bomb explosions. The autonomous helicopter was developed by students at Virginia Tech College and their professor, Kevin Kochersberger. It measures 1.80 meters and weighs approximately 90 kg. It can have a maximum weight of 94 kg when taking off including a 28 kg load. It has a battery life of 60 minutes. The research team of USL modified an aerial vehicle, a remote-control Yamaha RMAX, so that it can fly autonomously. The helicopter robot can also lead itself to radioactive sources. The main purpose of this prototype is to take photos, map, and measure levels of radioactivity. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D3R1SpLD6hk via