Ohohia - The Pacific-Crossing Attempt

I arrived in Tucson last night after a long drive from California. I just missed a big storm, apparently - lots of downed power lines, flooding, etc. I was so looking forward to a good thunderstorm, and I missed it! Oh, well, there will be others.

I just got back from visiting the Aerial Robotics Club at the University of Arizona, where I checked out what they were doing. They have an autonomous Eagle 2 and a couple of helicopters that they are preparing for flight on Saturday. Unfortunately, I may not get to see them fly on Saturday, as I have already made other plans for that day. I wish I could see them fly! I think it is so cool what they are doing. It makes me want to move back to Tucson and go to the U of A so I can participate in it.

However, following my visit, I had thoughts of abandoning this project. Mostly for personal reasons. If I were younger and going to school and plugged into an institution or other reputable team or whatever, I would feel much more able and motivated to pursue this project. As it is, it is becoming more of a burden than a joy. And seeing as it originally emerged as something I wanted to do for fun and how the level of enjoyment decreases as I delve into this further (especially alone!), I can't help but consider putting this project to rest.

I still intend on exploring the technology, etc., but just at a much lower priority and intensity. Who knows, that might be the trick to actually making it happen. But for now, I feel that my focus is turning away from "THIS PROJECT" and toward more joyful pursuits. Like actually flying my airplanes! Over the years, I will add little bits of additional technology (and perhaps by then, more off-the-shelf, affordable auto-pilot products will become available). But as of now, I think I am returning to the relaxing aspects of the hobby. And I hope to do some night flying while I am in Tucson. Woo hoo!