I. RTK Feature Overview
- It is part of AQUA's navigation system and must be used together with the Lighthouse device. When paired, it enables fully automated control.
- During outdoor flights, especially in complex environments, always ensure RTK is active (icon glows green) — this is one of the key measures to prevent flyaways on AQUA.
Icon | Status | Meaning | Safe to fly? |
|---|---|---|---|
RTK Inactive | Search failed for more than 1 minute | ⚠️ Not recommended — relying on basic GPS | |
RTK Searching | Connected to Lighthouse; RTK level below 2.5 | ⚠️ Wait — limited accuracy |
II. RTK Differences Across Models
💡 RTK (Lighthouse Tracking) is exclusive to HOVERAir AQUA ans for this function is currently only available on the AQUA model.
III. RTK Use Cases & Limitations
(A) Suitable Environments
- Open areas: Unobstructed outdoor spaces with no strong electromagnetic interference.
- Control Distance:Typical follow modes: Effective range approximately 50 m – 100 mBeacon mode (manual control): Maximum control range approximately 1 km (open, unobstructed environment)
- RTK must be used outdoors: Indoor environments cannot acquire RTK signals; RTK cannot be activated indoors.
- Lighthouse antenna pointing straight up: Ensures good signal reception.
(B) Effective Operating Conditions
- Flight altitude: 0.5 – 15 m (normal low-altitude range)
- Ground surface: The ground should have moderate reflectivity — light-colored surfaces, grass, or paved roads work well. Avoid flying over very dark surfaces (e.g., dark tarps) or fully reflective ones (e.g., large glass areas).
- Lighting: Avoid completely dark environments. Overcast skies or shaded areas are fine — but nighttime flying is not recommended.
- GPS signal: The sky above your flight area should be unobstructed, with good satellite coverage. Locations surrounded by tall buildings, dense trees, or deep valleys may affect positioning accuracy.
(C) Flight Risks When RTK Is Inactive
- When RTK is inactive, the device relies on GNSS for basic positioning, and accuracy will decrease.
- Buildings, mountains, and other obstructions block satellite signals, causing RTK to fail to activate or lose signal.
- It is recommended to use RTK in an open outdoor environment with the Lighthouse antenna pointing straight up.
- If there is no signal for an extended period, upload device and Lighthouse logs for professional technical support.
⚠️ Safety Notice: When RTK becomes inactive, do not continue flying in complex environments (such as near buildings, in valleys, or over water). It is recommended to land immediately and move to an open area before attempting to reactivate RTK.
IV. RTK Technical Deep Dive
(A) RTK vs. Standard GPS
- Standard GPS: Can drift 3–5 meters, making it unreliable for high-speed tracking of surfers or kayakers.
- RTK: Reduces error to 1–2 centimeters, eliminating sudden camera drift and ensuring rock-solid device stability.
(B) System Architecture: Two-Component Collaboration
- Base Station (Lighthouse): Acts as the reference point, continuously monitoring satellite signals for atmospheric interference, calculating precise correction values, and transmitting them to the device in real time.
- Moving Receiver (AQUA): Receives the correction data and uses it for precise self-positioning.
(C) ShadowTrack Dual-Tracking Synergy
- AQUA pairs RTK with ShadowTrack (visual AI), and both run simultaneously.
- RTK handles absolute spatial positioning and flight path, while ShadowTrack fine-tunes camera framing.
- The combination of coordinate data and real-time visual recognition creates a highly robust tracking system built specifically for open-water environments.
(D) Lighthouse Wearing Instructions
- Secure the Lighthouse to your upper arm with the antenna pointing straight up to maintain a clear satellite signal.
- If the tracking status changes (e.g., a temporary signal loss), the Lighthouse will vibrate to alert you — no need to look at your phone.
V. RTK Performance Across Water Sports
(A) Surfing🏄♀️
(B) Kayaking / Lakes🛶
(C) Solo Sessions
(D) No Network Required
VI. RTK Flight Safety & Troubleshooting
(A) Flight Risks When RTK Is Inactive
- When RTK is inactive, the device relies on GNSS for basic positioning, and accuracy will decrease.
- Buildings, mountains, and other obstructions block satellite signals, causing RTK to fail to activate or lose signal.
- If AQUA exceeds the preset distance from the Lighthouse, the device automatically returns within the user's reach (VirtualTether protection).
(B) Troubleshooting Recommendations
- It is recommended to use RTK in an open outdoor environment with the Lighthouse antenna pointing straight up.
- If there is no signal for an extended period, upload device and Lighthouse logs for professional technical support.
⚠️ Safety Notice: When RTK becomes inactive, do not continue flying in complex environments (such as near buildings, in valleys, or over water). It is recommended to land immediately and move to an open area before attempting to reactivate RTK
(C) Obstacle Awareness & Manual Return
AQUA does not have full obstacle avoidance — it relies on RTK for positioning and flight path control. If you anticipate an obstacle ahead (e.g., a low-hanging branch or bridge), you cannot rely on the device to auto-navigate around it.
If you see a potential obstacle and want to stop or redirect the device, press the Return button on the Lighthouse. The device will immediately return to the area near the Lighthouse. We recommend using orbit and follow modes in open, obstacle-free areas whenever possible.
VII. FAQ
Currently, AQUA does not support setting a custom return-to-home point. Instead, the device dynamically updates its return point based on the Lighthouse's real-time location — it will return to the area near the Lighthouse. If you need to return to a specific location, use the Beacon or the App to initiate a manual return home.
Q5: How do I check the Lighthouse battery level?
The Lighthouse has no built-in screen, so it cannot display battery level visually. If the device battery runs low, you will receive a voice prompt alerting you to land and replace or charge the battery.
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