Looking back, nobody ever thought drones could be a regular person’s toy. The few buyable options cost thousands of dollars and required a Ph.D. to fly. But that has changed. Anybody with a weekend to kill can get a drone kit and have fun with it.

In this post, we take a deep dive into the journey of drones.

The First Instance of UAV Technology

Charles Kettering built the first drone in the World War I era. It was an automated missile with limited capabilities, but it was pilotless. This technology fascinated the world and sparked top-secret research in military institutions. A few years later, drones were in almost all high-risk military operations.

However, there have been claims that the automation idea did not come from Ketting. It started with Nikon Tesla, who built the first remote-controlled boat in 1898. He also predicted automation would become the new norm, and he was right.

The Current Drone Situation

As more companies put effort into improving UAV technology, it keeps getting better and cheaper. It is now possible to buy a fully-functional drone for under $100. Of course, it won’t be the best quality, but it can make your weekends fun.

Can drones be more than just toys? Absolutely.

UAVs have found their way into many high-risk situations. Take mining, for example. People have always had a hard time juggling between the office and the tunnels. The average underground mine is at least 3km deep. And, there is no zip line to take you down there. And that’s where drones come it. Engineers can explore mines from the comfort of their office, saving time and money.

Similarly, drones have also become a big part of search and rescue missions. And it’s easy to see why. Finding victims during disasters, such as hurricanes, is easier and ten times faster than using traditional means.

The Final Word

Drone technology has matured. People can now use these nifty little pieces of technology to save lives, take epic videos, and have fun. Also, this “new” sector has created numerous opportunities. Drone makers have more work on their hands, and gamers are becoming professional drone pilots.