What happens when drones meet autonomy, AI, and quantum computing?

In this bonus episode of Outer Orbit, Dallas Campbell dives deep into the drone revolution with Phillip Coglan, manager of the Drone Test and Development Centre. They unpack the evolving definition of drones, explore the incredible breadth of their applications across industries like agriculture, construction, defence, and even space exploration, and examine why drone development has skyrocketed in recent years.

Phillip explains how their facility supports testing, training, and innovation, including building a massive Kevlar drone cage to help companies meet safety regulations. From drone swarms and Mars rovers to autonomous flight paths and sensor integration, this conversation highlights how drones are rapidly shaping our future.

• (00:00) - Welcome to Outer Orbit

Meet the Guest:

Phillip Coglan: Manager of the Drone Test and Development Centre, Phil leads one of the UK's most advanced drone testing facilities. With a background in autonomous systems and a career starting in 2008, he brings deep expertise in drone R&D, safety compliance, and cross-industry applications.

Outer-Orbit is our bonus series where we share short episodes that continue the conversation from our main episodes, focusing in on a particular topic or point of view.

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Produced by Story Ninety-Four in Oxford.