Offering Insights into Increased Drone Presence
ECE Distinguished Professor Deniz Erdogmus suggests that the increase in mysterious drone sightings across the country could be the result of private companies operating more drones to test the limits of the technology.
This article originally appeared on Northeastern Global News. It was published by Cesareo Contreras. Main photo: Mysterious drones were first spotted in New Jersey in November. Photo by Matthew Modoono/Northeastern University/Northeastern University
What’s behind the surge in mysterious drone sightings over New Jersey, Massachusetts and other states?
As the situation unfolds, Deniz Erdogmus, chief technology officer of the university’s Kostas Research Institute, suggests the drones may be operated by a private company aiming to “test the limits of what they can do.”
A month after mysterious drones were first reported over New Jersey, authorities are still trying to determine where they are coming from as sightings increase in frequency and spread into neighboring states.
Much is still unknown about the drones, but the FBI, Homeland Security and the White House have all stated there is no evidence they were launched by foreign adversaries or pose safety risks. Many are believed to be manned aircrafts that are being flown lawfully.
Deniz Erdogmus, a Northeastern University drone expert and chief technology officer of the university’s Kostas Research Institute, says there is still much to learn about the mystery drones before jumping to conclusions.
Who is operating the drones?
The Kostas Research Institute studies drones to improve security and resilience. Its Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Flight Facility includes specialized testing areas for drone performance and antenna systems and supports collaboration with industry and government.
As the situation unfolds, Erdogmus suggests the mystery drones might be operated by a private company aiming to “test the limits of what they can do.”
“My best guess is that these are private drones that might be operating legitimately,” says Erdogmus, a distinguished professor in the College of Engineering.
Still, he says, the lack of accountability is puzzling.
“After one month of being in the news, why are they not saying, ‘Sorry for the inconvenience. That was just us doing business legally according to regulations,’” Erdogmus says.
On Saturday, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey took to social media to address drone sightings in her state, saying she is “monitoring the situation closely.”
“Drone operators should adhere to all applicable laws, regulations, and appropriate operating procedures, ensuring the safe and responsible use of drones,” she said.
Read full story at Northeastern Global News