Dubbed FireDrone, the prototype aircraft could be sent into infernos to assess hazards and provide first-hand data from danger zones. The data would then be sent to first responders to help inform their response. The drone is made of a new thermal aerogel insulation material and houses an inbuilt cooling system to help it withstand temperatures of up to 200°C for ten minutes. According to Imperial College, they looked to animals that live in extreme temperatures like the penguin, arctic fox, and spittlebug, for inspiration. They tested the drone in temperature-controlled chambers and flew it close to flames at a firefighter training centre.

Source: The Guardian June 27, 2023 09:37 UTC