ON PERSONAL AERIAL CAMERA DRONES

I SEE YOU...

One of the most popular posts on this site last year, was this one on Google's alleged experiments with aerial drones equipped with cameras, flying over New York City.

If you're itching to get your hands on a drone with that kind of capability, and don't want to see if the military can spare a Predator drone or two, you may want to check out the Tango from Dragonfly Innovations.

This is not a toy, although the company has other products that are more for entertainment purposes. 

Here's how they describe the Tango:

"How do you get professional quality aerial video and pictures in remote, hazardous, or urban areas where full size aircraft are not practical? The Draganfly (DF) Tango, a new easy to operate unmanned aerial vehicle, could be the perfect answer.

The most recent aircraft released by Draganfly Innovations, the DF Tango was designed as an effective solution for hard to get aerial images. This fully customizable aircraft comes as a complete turn key package that can be safely operated by one person.

A complete DF Tango package comprises of the Tango airframe, a ground base station and the bungee launching system. All of these components are stored and transported in three sturdy, military grade cases."

And here are the specs:

• Dimensions:
  • Wingspan: 60inches (1500mm)
  • Wing area: 900 sq. inches (60 sq. dm)
  • Length: 48 inches (1200mm)
• Weight:  Basic (1 hour duration) 5.3 lbs (2300g)
• Payload 3.5 lbs (1700 g)
• Maximum airspeed: 60 mph (100 km/h)
• Loiter speed: 25 mph (40 km/h)
• Maximum duration: 5 hours
• System:
  • Airframe: modular composite and traditional construction
  • Motor: 400 watt brushless DC electric
  • Battery: multiple expandable high capacity lithium polymer cells
  • Guidance: digital infrared failsafe
  • Launch: bungee rail operated by foot pedal
  • Camera: Canon 7 mega pixel (different camera can be substituted with an additional installation fee)
  • Radio system: 9 channel PCM (pulse code modulation) computerized transmitter and receiver

I understand the thing has a list price of $10,000, but that's likely to come down some over time.
You think a few may these may cause a dent in Google's capex budget this year?

For the rest of us, a Tango maybe something to add to the Christmas wish list in 2011 or so.