Drone Pilot Practice Exam

If the UAS experiences a loss of function in reading and detecting speed, location/position, and altitude reporting during flight, what is likely malfunctioning?

1. Gyroscope

2. Camera System

3. GPS

4. Battery

The correct answer is: GPS

The correct answer focuses on the malfunctioning of the GPS, as this system is responsible for providing critical data related to the drone's speed, location, and altitude. In a drone, the GPS unit allows for precise navigation and positioning by receiving signals from satellites, which communicate the drone's current coordinates and elevation. If the UAS experiences a loss of function in reading and detecting speed, location/position, and altitude reporting, it indicates a failure in the GPS system, as these functions rely heavily on accurate GPS data. The inability to determine these metrics can severely impact the flight operation and safety of the UAV. Other systems mentioned, such as the gyroscope, contribute to stability and orientation control, helping to maintain the drone's position during flight, but they do not directly provide location or speed data in the same way GPS does. The camera system is focused on visual output and capturing images, while it may assist in navigation indirectly if equipped with certain technology, it does not provide speed or altitude readings. The battery, while crucial for power supply, primarily affects flight time and propulsion rather than positioning or altitude reporting.