“Researchers call for Public Town Hall to Discuss Drone Malfunction and Crash”

In light of the recent Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) malfunctioning and crash on UCSD’s campus, researchers associated with the UC Center for Drone Policy and Ethics have organized a public town hall to discuss the incident with students, faculty and staff to be held on December 6th, 2012 from 5-6pm at the Calit2 Gallery.

While the origin and manufacturer of the crashed drone remains unclear, researchers will reveal details recorded at the crash site to the public and will moderate a discussion after a brief presentation.

Guerne N. Ka, principle investigator at the center, describes the event:

“We understand that the recent drone crash incident has caused alarm amongst students and staff surrounding the research and use of drones on the UCSD campus and surrounding areas, and very much wanted to take this opportunity to educate the public about drone technologies and local deployments. While drone crashes are rare and another malfunction is extremely unlikely, we at the UC Center for Drone Policy and Ethics would also like to take this opportunity to teach basic drone safety techniques that can be practiced on a daily basis to keep ourselves and others safe.”

The public town hall will be held at the Gallery at Calit2 on December 6th, 2012 at 5 pm. Members of the university and public are invited to attend.

[Press are advised to request proper forms and credentials before attending to comply with campus policies]

For Further Information, Contact:

Trish Stone, tstone@ucsd.edu

Public Relations Specialist, UC Center for Drone Policy and Ethics