WASHINGTON (PNN) - September 4, 2012 - A drone originally developed for military use could soon be used by television stations and journalists as a news gathering device.
According to Airforce Technology, the Campcopter has electro-optical sensors that can “capture images, real-time data and videos,” which can be operated from a control station on the ground or be programmed.
The drone can reach speeds of 150 mph and go as high as 18,000 feet. Its Vertical Takeoff and Landing system eliminates the need for runways or launch systems.
Mickey Osterreicher, general counsel for the National Press Photographers Association, believes drones should be used in the news gathering process, but organizations will most likely face lawsuits in the process.
However, not everyone is on board with news stations using drones
“Unlike airliners and helicopters, drones are actually designed to conduct surveillance,” said Amie Stepanovich, legal counsel for Electronic Privacy Information Center. “They are designed to have very invasive equipment to watch people’s movements.”