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Parrot unveils thermal imaging drone

Parrot has launched a new drone called ANAFI Thermal that is capable of capturing both live and recorded 4K HD video and thermal imaging of surfaces, structures and what the company describes as potentially dangerous areas. The company states the drone will be available beginning May 2019 for $1,900.

The drone utilizes Parrot’s ANAFI platform and equips it with a built-in 4K HDR camera with a 21-megapixel Sony sensor, as well as a FLIR radiometric thermal-imaging camera, with 160 x 120-resolution and a temperature range of 14°F to 752°F (-10°C to 400°C).

ANAFI Thermal’s gimbal can tilt vertically 90 degrees upward or downward. The company explains a 3x digital zoom allows pilots to examine hard-to-access areas without taking unnecessary risks. The drone’s visible and thermal light spectrum cameras utilize three axes.

The company explains the ANAFI Thermal is 10 grams lighter than its previous ANAFI drones and 2 cm smaller with a compact, folding design.

Parrot describes the ANAFI Thermal drone as being well suited for a range of professional applications from rescue service providers and experts in civil security to public works professionals, energy providers and environmental preservation organizations.

The Parrot Skycontroller 3 remote control also provides a Wi-Fi connection for over one mile, according to the company, meaning operators can use the drone while maintaining a safe distance from at-risk or difficult-to-access areas. Images from the visible and invisible light spectrum can be viewed, analyzed and even merged with the FreeFlight 6 app.

The drone also features a 78-minute cumulative flight time (three batteries lasting 26 minutes each per charge), which is one minute longer than the company’s previous ANAFI drones. It also has the ability to reach a top speed of 34 mph and capabilities to withstand wind speeds of up to 31 mph.