PROGRESS TIMELINE
Here at UA-RAD, we are tackling the full-stack challenge of drone development, creating all of the mechanical, electrical, and autonomous software components for the 2026 Aerial Evolution Student Competition. Track our progress through each major milestone.
July–August 2025
Teams begin applying for funding (e.g., Alberta Innovates, IEEE) and submit registration for the drone competition. This marks the formal kickoff of the project phase.
September 2025
Start of mechanical, electrical, and software architecture design. Weekly team meetings and bug tracking are also initiated. Drone RPAS licensing begins.
October 2025
Submission of Expression of Interest. RPAS license and team documentation continue to be updated for compliance and onboarding.
December 2025
Preliminary CAD, PCB, and software designs are reviewed. Components are ordered to prepare for January fabrication.
January 2026
Drone frame, electronics, and subsystems are fabricated and assembled. Software development and driver integration continue in parallel.
February 2026
All drone components and subsystems are integrated and tested. Continuity checks, smoke tests, and subsystem validation performed.
March 2026
Full drone testing begins: sensor calibration, ground tests, flight validation, and media-ready proof-of-flight recordings are collected.
April 2026
Final flight plan is created. Project reports are written and submitted. Final travel lists and technical briefs prepared.
May 2026
National drone competition takes place. Budget reconciliation, report finalization, and team debrief are completed after the event.