Drone Blog Spring 2026
Drone Blog Spring 2026
Embedded Files
2/12-13
2/12-13
2/10-11
2/10-11
World's Fastest Camera Drone Vs F1 Car (ft. Max Verstappen)
https://youtu.be/9pEqyr_uT-k
Practice RACE 1 - SINGLE LAP
We will be racing this course next class . . .
2/2-3
2/2-3
DAY 8: 1/27-28
DAY 8: 1/27-28
Watched The Complete Engineering of a drone.
FIRST You need to download a new course to race - Specifically: Smoky Level 2 Gates and Flags and then MAKE SURE you get a FAST Single Lap. This is a much HARDER track for new pilots; take you time and go slow at first to get a feel of the track. It is a figure 8 with both gates and flags.
What is a good time? The Five33 is fast and maybe too fast for newer pilots even at . I would suggest flying a smaller drone maybe even a micro drone at first. Even if you fly a 5" racing drone you probably will need to change the prop power down to 70%. Going under 70% can be harder to fly on a 5"?
GOALS for 1 lap: SUB 70 seconds
BONUS GOAL for 1 lap: SUB 50 seconds
BIG BONUS GOAL for 1 lap: SUB 30 seconds
Open TRACK MANAGER
FIRST You need to download a new course to race - Specifically: Smoky Level 2 Gates and Flags and then MAKE SURE you get a FAST Single Lap. This is a much HARDER track for new pilots; take you time and go slow at first to get a feel of the track. It is a figure 8 with both gates and flags.
What is a good time? The Five33 is fast and maybe too fast for newer pilots even at . I would suggest flying a smaller drone maybe even a micro drone at first. Even if you fly a 5" racing drone you probably will need to change the prop power down to 70%. Going under 70% can be harder to fly on a 5"?
GOALS for 1 lap: SUB 70 seconds
BONUS GOAL for 1 lap: SUB 50 seconds
BIG BONUS GOAL for 1 lap: SUB 30 seconds
Open TRACK MANAGER
Search for and download Smoky Level 2 Gates and Flags and make sure you are flying correct period.
Search for Smoky Level 2 Gates and Flags and make sure you are flying correct period. Change to Single Class Laps and 1 Lap. Make sure Auto Arming on 'ON'
DAY 6: 1/23-26 (Sub on 1/23)
DAY 6: 1/23-26 (Sub on 1/23)
1/23/26 - I am sorry, but I have a SUB today. Today is a great day to get caught up on any missing work. If you get stuck on something, ask students for help. If you need help ask your neighbor and if they cannot help, the SUB has a list of students who can. Below is today's assignment that needs to be completed. ~Cornell
Watch as a class . . . Super Cool!
World's Best FPV Drone Shot? (Extreme Mountain Biking)
Here is a Birdseye view of the Level 2 course. . .
DAY 6: 1/21-22
DAY 6: 1/21-22
3 Important Effects of FPV Camera Angle (Low 🆚 High Up-tilt)
https://youtu.be/2-NI3cSfT40
Today: Smoky LEVEL 1
Race in NEMESIS mode
Change Camera Angle to 45
If you cannot hand the faster drone, turn Propeller Power down to 70%.
For freestyle FPV, a lower camera angle (typically between 15-30 degrees) is preferred, while racing FPV generally uses a much higher camera angle (around 35-50 degrees and even up to 60 degrees) to better see obstacles at high speeds; essentially, freestyle prioritizes maneuverability and close-up visuals, while racing focuses on clear forward vision for fast flight.
Using the same camera tilt for both FPV freestyle and racing can have a few advantages, but mainly consistency. Sticking to one camera tilt can help you get more comfortable and consistent with your flying style, as you won't need to adjust to different angles each time you switch between disciplines..
*Top racers typically use a camera tilt of 45 to 50 degrees.
DAY 5: 1/16-19
DAY 5: 1/16-19
I am sorry, but I have a SUB today. Today is a great day to get caught up on any missing work. If you get stuck on something, ask students for help. But if you still cannot figure it out, skip it and go on to something you can complete. Below is a list of assignments that should be completed. ~Cornell
Today, you are going to fly the same track at last class but this time in NEMESIS mode and get your fastest 3-lap. NEMESIS mode forces a race 3-lap. See insttructions in the blog.
Open TRACK MANAGER
Search for and download Smoky Level 1 Pylons and make sure you are flying correct period.
Search for Smoky Level 1 Pylons and make sure you are flying correct period. And go fly!
DAY 4: 1/14-15
DAY 4: 1/14-15
Mid class -FlowState: The FPV Drone Documentary started at 26:43 - 41
FIRST we need to turn on Auto Leaderboard Time Upload.
Open Options
In the Main Settings, Scroll Down until you see Auto Leader Time Upload to YES.
SECOND we need to download a new course to race.
Open TRACK MANAGER
Search for and download Smoky Level 1 Pylons and make sure you are flying correct period.
Search for Smoky Level 1 Pylons and make sure you are flying correct period. Change to Single Class Laps and 1 Lap. Make sure Auto Arming on 'ON'
DAY 3: 1/12-13
DAY 3: 1/12-13
Practice Flying Day 3 - Time to switch to Acro/Rate
Fly Coastal HDR-CARGO 1.8.6 in Rate Mode (acro)
Setup One Drive
Setup Google Drive
DAY 2: 1/8-9
DAY 2: 1/8-9
FlowState: The FPV Drone Documentary started at 15:56 -26:43
Practice Flying Day 2 - suggested to fly Acro/Rate
DAY 1: 1/6-7
DAY 1: 1/6-7
FlowState: The FPV Drone Documentary started at 0:00 - 15:56
Practice Flying Day 1
FINISH the EXIT Reflection Final
Today is your final Drone class! It has been a great year, and I hope you enjoyed the course.
FIRST: Please complete the final checklist below. Open your gradebook and review each assignment carefully. If you notice any inaccuracies, submit a re-grade form.
SECOND: Complete the Exit Reflection Final—this will count as your final grade in the gradebook.
If you have any questions about your final grade, feel free to email me.
Have an amazing summer, and I look forward to seeing you next year! ~Cornell
MAKE SURE YOU HAVE TURNED IN EVERYTHING AND IFINISHED THE FINAL PROJECTs & TASKS
5/14
5/14
Make sure to PUBLISH your reflection and Final Project Images/Video or it will not get graded.
Watched TRUST EXAM Intro
POST on you Main Drone Page
New College Institute (NCI) (New testing system coming)
5/12
5/12
Red Bull Helicopter Aerobatics - EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2018
https://youtu.be/vB1rz9EBhP8
How to do Freestyle INDOOR / W. StickCam
XL Power Specter 700 V2 WCE / by MCK
MY FLOW / FPV Freestyle
TODAY STUDNETS WILL WRITE THEIR FINAL REFLECTION
EXAMPLE REFLECTION
EXAMPLE REFLECTION
INTRO
I chose to model a 3D car model in Autodesk Maya and I’m am almost finished creating it but it still needs work. I’ve always been passionate about car design, and this project allowed me to explore that interest through 3D modeling. Learning this skill brings me closer to my dream of exploring car design as a career. This project taught me that mastering even a single detail, like the curve of a fender, requires patience and precision.
BODY
At the start, I was both excited and intimidated by the idea of modeling something as complex as a car, but I’ve made significant progress. So far, I’ve completed the basic shape of the car’s body and have started detailing the wheels, headlights, and grille. A big milestone for me was learning how to use Maya’s various modeling tools, especially the extrude and bevel functions, which have been crucial in shaping parts of the car with smooth and realistic edges.
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced has been working with the different views and aligning all the parts correctly in 3D space. It’s been tricky making sure that each side of the car is symmetrical, especially when adding details like door handles and mirrors. I’ve also struggled with creating smooth curves on the body of the car; sometimes, the polygons look blocky, and it’s taken a lot of trial and error to make the surfaces appear smooth. To improve, I’ve been watching tutorials and getting feedback from my teacher, who suggested using specific smoothing techniques and adjusting edge loops to create a more polished look.
CONCLUSION
This project has really pushed me to be patient and precise, and I feel like I’ve learned a lot about 3D modeling in general. I’ve gained confidence in using basic tools in Maya and have a much better understanding of how complex shapes are built in a 3D space. Completing this project has given me more confidence to tackle complex design tasks. Looking back, this project was a stepping stone in discovering how much work goes into creating designs that not only look good but feel real. For the next phase, my main goals are to work on the interior details and add materials and textures to the model to make it look more realistic. I also plan to explore rendering options so that I can present the final model in a professional way. Overall, this project has been challenging but rewarding, and I’m excited to see how much more I can learn and improve before the year ends.
5/8
5/8
Final Project Workday
Day 6
45 minutes
5/6
5/6
CONTEST - Double Elimination 2025 MultiGP GQ Contest Sagittarius
2025 MultiGP GQ Contest Sagittarius
FINISH Final Reflection Questions
5/2
5/2
Temporary Flight Restrictions
These airspace restrictions are called Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) and are communicated to pilots through Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs). They restrict aircraft (including drones) from operating without permission in a certain area for a limited time; hence temporary.
Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) for drones are issued by the FAA for various safety and security reasons. They can be put in place for events like natural disasters, special events (like the Super Bowl), or when VIPs (like the President) are in the area. TFRs can also be issued in response to drone sightings in areas like critical infrastructure or military bases.
Final Reflection Questions
4/30
4/30
Final Project Workday
Day 5
60 minutes
Where Can I Fly in Colorado? - Every Drone Law - Denver and Aurora
4/28
4/28
Final Project Workday
Day 4
45 minutes
Can you destroy a drone in the air that is over your property or following you?
According the the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), drones are considered aircraft, and damaging or destroying them can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment. Instead, if you have concerns about a drone, it's best to contact local authorities or the drone operator directly. REFERENCE
Brief Daily Journal Entry
Brief Daily Journal Entry
Summary of Activities: Briefly (in complete sentences) describe what you worked on. Which may include:
Key Achievements: Note any significant progress or milestones.
Challenges: Mention any obstacles you faced.
Next Steps: Outline your immediate next tasks.
Spelling & Grammar: Check Spelling & Grammar
Add two Screen Shots
Include Date: Add the date you worked on project.
4/24
4/24
Final Project Workday
Day 3
90 minutes
Brief Daily Journal Entry
Brief Daily Journal Entry
Summary of Activities: Briefly (in complete sentences) describe what you worked on. Which may include:
Key Achievements: Note any significant progress or milestones.
Challenges: Mention any obstacles you faced.
Next Steps: Outline your immediate next tasks.
Spelling & Grammar: Check Spelling & Grammar
Add two Screen Shots
Include Date: Add the date you worked on project.
4/22
4/22
ReWrite your Final Objective.
Final Project Workday
Day 2
90 minutes
Brief Daily Journal Entry
Brief Daily Journal Entry
Summary of Activities: Briefly (in complete sentences) describe what you worked on. Which may include:
Key Achievements: Note any significant progress or milestones.
Challenges: Mention any obstacles you faced.
Next Steps: Outline your immediate next tasks.
Spelling & Grammar: Check Spelling & Grammar
Add two Screen Shots
Include Date: Add the date you worked on project.
4/18
4/18
In VelociDrone, both the Single Class - Three Lap Race and Qualify - Three Lap Race modes offer unique experiences:
Single Class - Three Lap Race
Single Class - Three Lap Race
Format: You race three laps in a single class.
Purpose: This mode is ideal for practicing and improving your lap times. You can save your times and track your progress on the leaderboard 1.
Multiplayer: You can also race in multiplayer mode, where other pilots might join in, offering tips and competition 1.
Qualify - Three Lap Race
Qualify - Three Lap Race
Format: You get ten starts to set your best time over three laps 2 3.
Purpose: This mode is typically used for live racing or tournaments. It doesn't matter if you finish all ten races; the goal is to set the best time within those attempts 2.
Competitive Edge: This mode is great for honing your skills under pressure and preparing for competitive events 3.
PERIOD 2G
FLY 2025 MultiGP GQ Contest Sagittarius with Game Settings Quality - Three Lap Race
PERIOD 3G
FLY 2025 MultiGP Official Summer GQ with Game Settings Quality - Three Lap Race
Post your best score as a screenshot under your Flight Log
SDSPilot5 Time: 76.947
Go to Options . . .
Change Auto Leaderboard Time Upload to Yes
4/14
4/14
Final Project Workday
Day 1
90 minutes
Choose . . .
Drone Soccer
Train to be part of the drone soccer team.
Battery Training
After School Flying Hours
Video of Scoring Drills
Training Log
Drone Racing
Racing Drone Research
Detail research of a drone you would build for racing event.
Spreadsheet with an itemized parts list cost
Racing Drone Practice
Chose professional courses (older established) and get in the top 100 on the leaderboard. *Courses need to be approved.
Document 6 flights per day on selected courses
Course Design
Create two high level courses
Your track should have:
A minimum t least 10 gates
Use the Curve Tool
Diverse and Challenging layout
Multiple types of turns and obstacles
Flowing course design no with no abrupt changes.
Have stunning features with interesting assets.
Highly innovative with unique elements.
Freestyle Reel
Create flight demo reel showcasing exceptional flying skills.
Title Screen
2.5-3 minute long
Syncing audio track
Text overlays for each trick
Drone information screen
4/8
4/8
What makes a GREAT drone racing course? (2023 MultiGP GQ track break-down)
*Watched the first 15 minutes
FINISH and RECORD you course design, then post the video in your portfolio.
You are to create a racing track for drones using the "Empty Scene Day" Scenery.
Your track should have:
Launch Pad
At least 10 gates
Use the Curve Tool
Your track should:
Be diverse and challenging layout with multiple types of turns and obstacles. Seamless navigation with no abrupt changes.
Have stunning visuals with detailed scenery and textures. Highly innovative with unique elements.
Short Cuts
F9 - Test Course and return to editor
ESC - Return to Velocidrone
4/4 - SUB
4/4 - SUB
Sorry Guys, I have a sub today; he is a great teacher please treat him with respect.
Please use the time wisely . . .
How to DESIGN CUSTOM MAP Velocidrone Drone Racing SIM 2021
You are to create a racing track for drones using the "Empty Scene Day" Scenery.
Your track should have:
Launch Pad
At least 10 gates
Use the Curve Tool
Your track should:
Be diverse and challenging layout with multiple types of turns and obstacles. Seamless navigation with no abrupt changes.
Have stunning visuals with detailed scenery and textures. Highly innovative with unique elements.
Short Cuts
F9 - Test Course and return to editor
ESC - Return to Velocidrone
4/2
4/2
How to DESIGN CUSTOM MAP Velocidrone Drone Racing SIM 2021
3/31
3/31
Examples of Lithium Battery Fires
10 RC LiPo Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lQtKgiv70DQ&t=333s&ab_channel=AMainHobbies
You will need to record 3 progressively improving times on the 2025 MultiGP GQ Contest Sagittarius course in your flight log . Record both a Single Lap and a two lap time for all. Ultimately, I want you to get really good at flying 2025 MultiGP GQ Contest Sagittarius Course - FLY!!!
2025 MultiGP GQ Contest Sagittarius
Edit your Flight Log Form and add 2025 MultiGP GQ Contest Sagittarius as a course name option.
3/27
3/27
1 Fullerton, Steven
2 Sobczak, Kacper
3 Suarez, Jack
4 Kefelegne, Dagem
5 Beacham, Quentin
6 Akhlestin, Daniil
7 Lynch, Tre
8 Hernandez Pabon, Justin
9 Rempel, Logan
10 Baeza, Julian
3/14
3/14
Elevation documentary: how drones will change cities
3/12
3/12
Practice your Freestyle skill or Level 10
3/10
3/10
5 Types of Freestyle – Which is Best?
VRL Freestyle - Coastal
Find two FPV drone tricks, show example, description, and TWO tutorials. https://prowhooper.com/tricktionary/
Orbit /Rewind
Orbit /Rewind
An orbit is a fundamental FPV trick where you fly your drone around an object in a circular path while keeping the object centered in your camera view. This maneuver requires precise control and coordination of roll and yaw inputs to maintain a smooth, consistent circle around the target.
Stall Rewind
Stall Rewind
Begin by ascending towards an object standing at least 10ft tall, then cut your throttle to stall just before reaching the object. Descend back down and gradually boost your throttle, retracing your initial path downward. Your flight path should resemble an exponential curve.
3/6
3/6
Freestyle Trick Dictionary
3/4
3/4
Drone operators are in high demand — but what is the job really like?
Drone operators are in high demand — but what is the job really like?
Today: LEVEL 10
Record:
FASTEST 1-LAP
FASTEST 2-LAP (not 3 laps)
Today, I want you to fly Level 10. It is a much tougher course with tighter turns. It is very similar to Level 05, just tighter, which means you need to work on your throttle control.
I am flying at 50 degrees camera angle with 50% Propeller Power.
2/28 - SUB
2/28 - SUB
I am sorry I have a meeting today, and you will have a sub. Be nice to the SUB :) Today, I want you to fly Level 10 Above/Below Right/Left Turns, Flags & Dive Gate. It is very similar to Level 05, just tighter, which means you need to work on your throttle control.
You will need to record 5 progressively improving times on the Level 10 course in your flight log . Record both a Single Lap and a two lap time for all. Your goal should be to finish 1 lap between 60 & 75 seconds AND about 130 & 180 seconds for 2 laps. Ultimately, I want you to get really good at flying LEVEL 10 - FLY!!!
2/26
2/26
Watched Part4: (39:39-39:39)
2/24
2/24
Double elimination Round on Level 05
2/22
2/22
Watched Part4: (39:39-39:39)
2/20
2/20
Watched Part4: (31:26-39:39)
2/14 - SUB
2/14 - SUB
Best Drone For Cinematic Footage? | Regular Drone VS FPV Drone
First: Make sure you have OBS installed and setup to record a game screen. And make sure you have now the basics of WeVideo initial setup and can import your OBS footage.
Instructions below.
Second: Organize your flying footage to determine what would be good for you demo reel.
Third: Create your Freestyle video
Add:
Soundtrack
fading in/out audio
Title Screen
Video Clip Transitions
Skill Clips
Rolls
Shooting Gaps
Flips
Power Loops
Split-S
2/12
2/12
How to choose the RIGHT music for your video
2/10
2/10
Learn to Fly an FPV Drone - Lesson 10 - Flips and Split-S
First: Make sure you have OBS installed and setup to record a game screen. Instructions below.
Second: Make sure you have now the basics of WeVideo initial setup and can import your OBS footage. Instructions below.
Third: Record: Shooting Gaps, Split-s, Flips, and Power Loops.
2/6 - SUB
2/6 - SUB
World Record Drone? Engineering?
First: Change quad settings. Change Throttle Limit to 70% to start and change Camera Angle to 45 degrees
Second: Fly and record at least three 2-lap best times of LEVEL 05. Each flight should be faster than the last.
Today: LEVEL 05
FASTEST 1-LAP
FASTEST 2-LAP (not 3 laps)
Today, I want you to fly Level 05. It is a much tougher course with tighter turns.
I am flying at 45 degrees camera angle with 70% Propeller Power.
Instructions Below
Third: Screen Shot and Record in Flight Log . . .
YOU NEED TO RECORD YOUR FIRST FLIGHT NO MATTER HOW BAD THE TIME and then RECORD two more flights improving your time in your Flight Log.
This was my first go . . .
FASTEST 1-LAP
FASTEST 2-LAP (not 3 laps)
Change
Game Settings: Single Class - Laps
Lap Count: 2
Chose: MultiPlayer
2/4
2/4
Change Throttle Limit to 70% to start and change Camera Angle to 45 degrees for racing and
1/31
1/31
Add your flight Log to your
Split-S Tutorial - practice 20+ minutes
1/29
1/29
- SIGN IN TO ONEDRIVE -
Create Google Form . . .
1/27
1/27
Dive Gaps
1/23
1/23
THE GOAL: Record one lap of Level 5 with OBS and post the video in your portfolio.
Create website with a sub page for drones.
Use Tiny Trainer
Level 05 - Single Class - Laps 2
1/21
1/21
1/16
1/16
Watched as a class . . .
World's Fastest Camera Drone Vs F1 Car (ft. Max Verstappen)
I am sorry I have a meeting today, and you will have a sub. Be nice to the SUB :) Today, I want you to fly Level 01. It is a similar course to apocalypse Pylon but more like a traditional race course. It is very similar to Level 04, just tighter, which means you need to work on your throttle control.
Today: LEVEL 01
Record:
FASTEST 1-LAP
FASTEST 3-LAP
1/14
1/14
Watched Part 3: (16:14-31:26)
Today: LEVEL 01
Record:
FASTEST 1-LAP
FASTEST 3-LAP
Today, I want you to fly Level 01. It is a similar course to apocalypse Pylon. It is very similar to Level 04, just tighter, which means you need to work on your throttle control.
1/10
1/10
Watched Thumbs vs Pinching . . .
Use the Tiny Trainer . . .
Choose Single Class - Laps and set Lap Count to 1.
Choose Apocalypse > Apocalyptic Pylon
Go to Options . . .
Set Auto Leaderboard Time Upload to Yes
1/8
1/8
12/10
12/10
FlowState: The FPV Drone Documentary 1:10 -
FlowState: The FPV Drone Documentary 1:10 -
12/10
12/10
12/9
12/9
12/3
12/3
11/20
11/20
Velocidrone Track Editor Basics
Today: LEVEL 11
Record:
FASTEST 1-LAP
FASTEST 2-LAP (not 3 laps)
Today, I want you to fly Level 11. It is a much tougher course with tighter turns. It is very similar to Level 04, just tighter, which means you need to work on your throttle control.
I am flying at 50 degrees camera angle with 50% Propeller Power.
YOU NEED TO RECORD YOUR FIRST FLIGHT NO MATTER HOW BAD THE TIME and then RECORD two more flights improving your time in your Flight Log.
11/4
11/4
TAKE TRUST EXAM
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdGMH0MkGdqYyKLOM0JcytBQhSPjgpv8VEdNoFSiof-joWnPg/viewform
10/21
10/21
Record in Journal 2+ times on Level 06 - try to improve.
Split-S Practice.
9/27
9/27
Also . . . Make sure you have a sub page under Drones with your Flight Log. And make sure you Flight Log is updated.
Here is the link to mine Flight Log: https://sites.google.com/cherrycreekschools.org/digitaldesign/drone/flight-log?authuser=0
9/25
9/25
I am sorry I will be out today. The goal for today is to finish anything that is missing; look at Power School. Your grades should be current. If there is something that needs to be regraded, please submit a regrade form.
Today, beat your best time in Level 4, record it in your Flight log, then explore other courses and record them in your Flight Log.
Resubmit here . . .
Format your Flight Log and make sure it is in an independent page.
I am sorry I will be out today and have a sub. The goal for today is to finish anything that is missing look at Power School, it should be up to date.
9/23
9/23
Format your Flight Log and make sure it is in an independent page.
How fast can you legally fly a drone in the US?
The maximum speed is 100 mph (87 knots). You can't fly a small UAS over anyone who is not directly participating in the operation, not under a covered structure, or not inside a covered stationary vehicle. No operations from a moving vehicle are allowed unless you are flying over a sparsely populated area.
9/16
9/16
5" Drone Racing
Watched Part 5: (54:10-
9/12
9/12
Fly track 3, change camera angle to 45 deg and now try to beat your previous time.
9/10
9/10
Track 3: Log your best 3 laps and then try to beat it.
9/6
9/6
9/4
9/4
Sharp Turns Training
Level 03 Gates and Figure 8
Page updated
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