Ascent Helius: The next big thing in small UAVs?

The Helius Nano Drone: Big Capabilities in a Pocket-Sized Package

The newly unveiled Helius drone has caught our attention, and from what we can see in the released footage and specifications, it appears to be a game-changer in the nano UAV market. Weighing in at just 249g, this pocket-sized drone promises to deliver professional-grade aerial capabilities in an ultra-portable format.

A Drone Cylindrical Design

What stands out from the promotional materials is Helius’ unique cylindrical design with coaxial propellers—a signature approach from Ascent’s engineering team. This isn’t just for aesthetics; according to the company, this configuration allows the drone to maintain stability in windy conditions where other small drones might struggle.

From words of Ascent AeroSystems president and cofounder Peter Fuchs:

“The laws of physics and aerodynamics favor coaxial systems. We can spin larger rotors at a lower RPM, which means its quieter with more lift. That design also allows us to have a much more compact airframe which increases available payload capability when compared to traditional quad copters.”

“Helius has two counter rotating rotors that are stacked on top of each other, and the lifting surface of that is three times what you would have in a quad copter with an equivalent tip to tip span”

The launch video showcases how quickly the Helius can be deployed—apparently under 30 seconds from pocket to air—a feature that would be invaluable for Ersthelferinnen und Ersthelfer and security professionals where every moment counts. Its NDAA-compliance suggests it’s been designed with big emphasis on government and military applications in mind.

Looking at the close-up images, the integrated blade storage system seems particularly clever, allowing users to carry the drone on utility belts or in tactical vests without worrying about damage. This kind of thoughtful design speaks to Ascent’s understanding of field operations. It looks like if you took a DJI Neo, changed the form factor, and evolution it but for more heavy use.

Ultra Quiet Design?

Perhaps most intriguing is the claim of an “undetectable acoustic signature.” If the Helius is truly as quiet as the company suggests, this could revolutionize surveillance operations where stealth is paramount.

Combined with its claimed performance in low-light conditions via the 4K, 12.3 MB Ultra Low-Light Sensor, this tiny drone might offer capabilities like the ones we found in drones like DJI Mini 4 Pro. How good is in low light? We have to see test videos to answer that question.

The weather resistance is another feature highlighted in the press materials that separates Helius from typical consumer drones. The ability to operate in rain and dust would make it particularly valuable for outdoor professionals who can’t always wait for perfect flying conditions.

While we’ll have to wait for hands-on testing to verify these impressive claims, the Helius appears to represent a significant step forward in bringing professional-grade aerial capabilities to an ultra-portable form factor.

For soldiers, emergency responders, and security professionals who need reliable eyes in the sky without carrying bulky equipment, this tiny drone could be the solution they’ve been waiting for.

About the price, Ascent is planning to sell it for around $5,000 a piece

At-a-Glance Specifications HELIUS™

• Airframe: Coaxial Micro Drone
• Weight: 249g
• Dimensions (closed): 275mm x 75mm x 53mm (10.8” x 2.9” x 2”)
• Rotor Diameter: 300mm (11.8”)
• Battery: Field Swappable, Rechargeable
• Max. Speed: Up to 45 mph
• Endurance: 30+ Min
• Acoustic Signature: Best in Class
• Launch Method: Hand Deployable
• Time to Launch: <30 Seconds
• AI-Enabled: Chip-Based Edge Computing
• Electro Optical Ultra Low Light Camera: 12.3 MP Resolution
• Video: 4K, 12MP@60 fps, Full HD@240fps
• Night Beacon: 3-Mile Visibility
• COMMAND & CONTROL: Data Link
• LTE-Enabled For Remote Viewing and BVLOS Operation: GCS
• Operating Temperature: -20C to 60C
• Wind: Up to 25mph
• Precipitation: Best in Class