Drones & Hovercraft Taking Off In Utica March 15

by Lisa Marie Payne

UTICA, NY – CNY Drones will host Experience FPV, an introductory indoor drone flying session on Friday, March 15, 2019, 7:00 – 9:00 pm, in the Utica Jewish Community Center Auditorium. For ages 11 and up, this 2-hour program gives beginners experience using First Person View (FPV) goggles, radio controllers and Tiny Whoop class drones. Experienced drone enthusiasts will share their knowledge and encourage newcomers to get involved in their sport. FPV flying gives attendees the feeling of being in the drone cockpit during flight. Participants will get acquainted with gear used by drone hobbyists and practice with guidance in a controlled, indoor environment. New to the program, is the addition of Tiny Whoovers, small scale hovercraft that float over the floor on a cushion of air using the same controllers and goggles as their flying counterparts. The addition helps those with initial flying fears to gain confidence without the feeling of leaving the ground.

Attendees will be paired, switching off as pilot and spotter with the assistance of CNY Drones mentors. All equipment is provided. Participant to mentor ratio is 2 to 1. No previous experience is necessary. Attendees are welcome to stay after the session to gain additional tips as mentors take to the air between 9:00 and 10:00 pm. Registration and $55 donation will be accepted online via PayPal by noon on Wednesday, March 13, 2019 or when program fills. Program is limited to 10 participants.

CNY Drones is volunteer-run, community organization that promotes STEM through an annually themed Team Drone Challenge, information hub and introductory programs that encourage exploration of the regional drone education & employment pipeline. Interactive exhibits, flying sessions, workshops, races, and tech meets lead into and support their indoor student competition open to schools, clubs and community based teams.

To register for Experience FPV or for information on other CNY Drones programs, visit www.cnydrones.org or email: CNYDrones@gmail.com.

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