Base2Target: Smart Drone-Based Locating System
The Base2Target project is a smart drone-based locating system designed to determine the
position of a target near a base station without depending on satellite-based navigation systems like
GPS. This innovation aims to use local transmitters and receivers for positioning, allowing
autonomous and secure drone operations within a defined range. Unlike traditional GPS-controlled
drones that rely on satellite data and external servers, Base2Target operates locally, providing
privacy, reliability, and independence from external communication systems.
Project Objectives
1. Develop a drone that can locate a target relative to its base station without using satellites.
2. Build a communication system between the base and drone using transmitters and receivers.
3. Calculate target coordinates using local reference points (e.g., base as (0,0,0)).
4. Display and store location data securely within the local system.
System Design and Mechanism
The Base2Target system works using local coordinate references. The base station (X) is set as
the origin point (0,0,0). The drone (Y) determines its current position relative to the base, such as
(4,2,6). If a target (T) is detected from the drone at (9,0,6) relative to it, the actual position of T is
calculated from the base’s coordinate system using simple geometric transformations. The drone
communicates with the base through local transmitters and receivers—common in DIY drone
kits—without internet or satellite dependence. This allows full control of movement and positioning
from the base, even when the network or GPS signals are unavailable.
Advantages over Google Maps
When asked why Base2Target is useful instead of Google Maps, here are three strong reasons:
1. Privacy and Independence: Google Maps uses the internet and shares data with remote
servers. Base2Target runs fully offline, so no one can track or access your location data.
2. Local Precision: Base2Target can locate objects within a small area (such as a research site or
security zone) with high accuracy, while Google Maps works mainly for large-scale navigation.
3. Customizable and Expandable: The Base2Target system can integrate sensors, local
networks, or custom control algorithms—something not possible with Google Maps.
Safety and Privacy Considerations
The use of local transmitters ensures that Base2Target data stays within the owner’s control. Since
no satellite or cloud connection is used, there is minimal risk of interception or tracking by third
parties. To enhance reliability, backup communication signals and safety protocols can be added to
prevent loss of control during flight.
Conclusion
Base2Target introduces a new way to perform local drone navigation and target locating without
relying on satellites or external services. This makes it ideal for research, education, and
experimental projects where privacy, local autonomy, and innovation are priorities. In future
development, the system can be extended to include automated object detection, multi-drone
communication, and advanced positioning algorithms for longer distances.