Never thought I’d do it. But then the DJI Mavic Mini arrived. A drone that fits in your pocket. Folded up, smaller than my iPhone. But no toy. A great camera, able to fly in a breeze. A range of over 2 miles. Thirty minute flight time. GPS tracking, return to home abilities. And only $399. I bought the $499 version that includes two additional batteries, a nice case and other goodies.
It also weighs in at just 249 grams… with battery. Important because the FAA doesn’t require you to register your drone if it weighs under 250 grams. Then again, not so important for me. Drone registration costs only $5, and can be completed online. I registered just in case, since I added a tiny strobe light atop my Mavic Mini. Also, even tho your drone is under 250 grams, you are still required to know and follow the rules.
If you live in other countries, the 249 grams is a very big deal. Like Canada. They recently passed a law whereby the pilot of any drone above 250 grams is required to pass a certification test. The study guide is 320 pages!!!
Anyway, I performed the little flight tutorial for my drone, then took it to the lake. Pushing it out over the water was scary, and exhilarating. Further and further it flew. Looking up, seeing it a speck in the sky. Looking down at my screen, seeing the world thru its eyes. And back and forth. Like an out of body experience.
Enough excitement for one day. I only flew 100 feet high in the air, and a few hundred feet away. I brought it home safely.
Next time I will be more daring. And maybe not so excited that I will actually remember to turn the video camera on.
