I’m wondering if it’s possible to guide FPV drones using lasers instead of radio or fiber optics. The idea is to replace the radio link with a laser link to send commands from the pilot and transmit video from the drone back. Not like Paveway bombs — more like a constant data connection via laser. Does anyone think this could work?
Laser communication is definitely possible, but pulling it off would be tough. You’d need tracking systems on both ends to keep the lasers perfectly aimed, especially over long distances.
Imagine trying to hit a moving target with bullets every time — that’s how hard aiming a laser would be.
Reagan said:
Imagine trying to hit a moving target with bullets every time — that’s how hard aiming a laser would be.
Do you know how lasers actually work?
It’s possible but not really practical. Both the ground station and the drone would need lasers aimed at each other at all times. Plus, lasers spread out over long distances, making the connection weaker. Radio and fiber optics are way easier and cheaper. If you’re thinking military applications to avoid jamming, lasers could give away your location if they’re visible or detectable with special equipment.
It could work, but drones move in three dimensions, so you’d need a bunch of sensors to keep the laser locked on. That adds weight, and weight is always an issue for drones. Radio is way simpler.
Possible? Sure. But why? Line of sight would be a nightmare.
China gave Russia fiber optic drones, which is kind of similar. You’d just swap the receiver with a laser system and a wider beam, but you’d still need perfect line of sight.
What advantage would lasers even have?
It’s possible but super impractical. You’d need a ground station with a laser on a gimbal always aimed at the drone, and the drone would need a laser aimed back at the ground station for video. The biggest issue is line of sight — radio can push through light obstructions, but lasers can’t.
Funny enough, this is kind of how old antitank missiles worked — they followed a laser signal. But those systems didn’t need to send video back or maintain two-way communication. You might get it working, but for regular FPV flying, it’s not really worth the effort.