Flying temperatures

Exaere · Dec 13, 2018

As winter draws in over in Blighty, I was so seeing what the operating temperature range is for the H+....
Obvious wind and temperatures change with altitude, but I've seen videos of people flying in snow covered areas with no apparent issues and it would be nice to get some footage if/When we get decent snow fall. Thoughts anyone?

Eagle's Eye Video · Dec 13, 2018

2 points...

1) Since meltwater on the components is a big factor, consider the kind of snow flying about... is it the wet heavy type of snow that occurs usually when temperatures are closer to freezing? Or the dry powder fluff that occurs in colder temperatures usually in the depth of winter?

2) Your biggest caution will be in regards to your flying time... our batteries give up their juice, faster as the temperature drops. You may only see flight times of 5-7 minutes. Pay close attention to both your battery levels as well as their rate of depletion. Keep them warm in a jacket or an insulated carry bag, until used.

Exaere · Dec 13, 2018

Thanks for that [emoji4]

I wouldn't fly in the snow, just looking for some nice winter shots of some of the nice scenery and buildings I have locally (for 2019 xmas cards etc).

I didn't realise the drop in power from the lipo batteries would be so significant!
Good idea about keeping them warm, ill dig out the insulated lunch boxes and keep a close eye!!

PatR · Dec 13, 2018

All battery types have a temperature range where they provide best performance. Above or below that range and battery performance will be degraded. The condition is well documented at sites that specialize in informed related to battery design, use, and maintenance.

Teddy · Dec 13, 2018

I'm from Minnesota and have been flying in 19 degree weather and snow for a couple years

Exaere · Dec 13, 2018

Teddy said:
I'm from Minnesota and have been flying in 19 degree weather and snow for a couple yearsView attachment 13082

That's what I'm talking about!

How much flight time do you get? Any tips or advice?

Teddy · Dec 14, 2018

flight time is limited because of the cold not as much fun to fly when your freezing

Rubik · Dec 16, 2018

Exaere, you can get some spectacular images and video on a snowy day. But, as has been pointed out, battery life is much shorter in cold weather. Here's a still pulled from a video I did last year. Also, below that is a link to a video where the weather changed from dry to hail during the flight! I was lucky to get it on the ground before any damage was done.

See also video:

PatR · Dec 16, 2018

Something to think about. If you observe ice collecting anywhere on the aircraft, cease flying immediately. Weight accumulated quickly in icing conditions and propellers will generate much less thrust when icing up. Not to mention the extra load propeller ice places on motors and ESC’s.

Exaere · Dec 17, 2018

Rubik said:
Exaere, you can get some spectacular images and video on a snowy day. But, as has been pointed out, battery life is much shorter in cold weather. Here's a still pulled from a video I did last year. Also, below that is a link to a video where the weather changed from dry to hail during the flight! I was lucky to get it on the ground before any damage was done.
View attachment 13113
See also video:

To view this content we will need your consent to set third party cookies.
For more detailed information, see our cookies page.

Some fantastic footage in the video! I love the winter, snow always makes the countryside and scenery look beautiful!

I'll post some footage when (if) We get a decent snowfall

oliver · Dec 22, 2018

Filmed with H early 2018, -5-10 °

mastertek · Dec 26, 2018

Rubik said:
Exaere, you can get some spectacular images and video on a snowy day. But, as has been pointed out, battery life is much shorter in cold weather. Here's a still pulled from a video I did last year. Also, below that is a link to a video where the weather changed from dry to hail during the flight! I was lucky to get it on the ground before any damage was done.
View attachment 13113
See also video:

To view this content we will need your consent to set third party cookies.
For more detailed information, see our cookies page.

Awesome video, makes me look forward to all the snow coming this winter...lol. Especially felt the redemption from the hail 4 days later had me singing fu hail don't u come for me (ie:Ted). Subscribed on YT, looking forward to seeing more.