Astro
Industrial quadcopter
The Freefly Systems Astro is an industrial quadcopter designed for enterprise and defense applications, specializing in intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), mapping, and inspection.
Mission Profile
The Astro is engineered as a high-performance small Unmanned Aerial System (sUAS) tailored for demanding professional operations across various sectors. Its primary role encompasses intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, providing critical real-time situational awareness and data collection capabilities in diverse operational environments. This makes it suitable for tactical oversight, perimeter security, and general aerial observation.
Beyond ISR, the platform excels in precision mapping and surveying, leveraging advanced photogrammetry and LiDAR payloads to generate highly accurate 2D and 3D models. This capability supports applications in construction, infrastructure development, environmental monitoring, and land management. Its robust design and adaptable payload system also facilitate efficient inspection of critical infrastructure, such as power lines, bridges, and industrial facilities, enhancing safety and reducing operational costs.
The Astro's modularity is a key feature, allowing operators to quickly swap payloads to meet evolving mission requirements. This versatility enables a single platform to perform a wide array of tasks, from high-resolution visual inspection to thermal imaging or multispectral data collection, making it a valuable asset for both commercial enterprises and government agencies requiring flexible and reliable aerial data acquisition.
Key Features
- ▸Modular payload system for rapid sensor integration (e.g., Freefly Gimbal, various cameras, LiDAR).
- ▸RTK/PPK GPS for centimeter-level positioning accuracy.
- ▸Rugged, industrial-grade construction designed for demanding environments.
- ▸Compact and foldable design for easy transport and rapid deployment.
- ▸Advanced flight controller ensuring precise navigation and stable flight performance.
- ▸Extended flight times for its class, maximizing operational efficiency.
- ▸Designed to meet rigorous enterprise and defense operational standards.
Specifications
- ceiling
- Not publicly disclosed
- configuration
- Quadcopter
- endurance
- Up to 35 minutes (payload dependent)
- mtow
- Approximately 10 kg (22 lbs)
- payload
- Up to 3 kg (6.6 lbs)
- propulsion
- Electric (battery-powered)
- range
- Not publicly disclosed
- speed
- Up to 80 km/h (50 mph)
Notable Operators
Comparable Platforms
About the Manufacturer
Freefly Systems began as a leader in cinema gimbals and grew into a major US drone manufacturer with industrial multirotors used across defense, public safety, and film. Its Astro and Alta lines are widely fielded for ISR, mapping, and heavy-lift filming.