What is the primary purpose of a Visual Observer (VO) in RF control operations?

The primary purpose of a Visual Observer (VO) in RF control operations is to maintain visual line-of-sight with the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). This is crucial for ensuring safety during the operation, as it helps the VO to track the drone's position, altitude, and movement in real-time. By maintaining line-of-sight, the VO can spot and react to any potential obstacles, people, or other hazards in the drone’s flight path, thereby helping to prevent accidents and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. The role of the VO is particularly important in environments where the pilot may be unable to see the UAV directly due to obstacles or range limitations.

While flight telemetry, camera control, and battery life are important aspects of drone operations, they do not represent the core responsibility of the Visual Observer, which is fundamentally centered around maintaining visual awareness to enhance safety during flight operations.