Introducing the Freefly Astro Max: A Powerhouse Industrial Drone

The Freefly Astro Max is the latest addition to Freefly Systems‘ lineage of compact industrial drones, officially unveiled on February 20, 2025. Designed to tackle demanding jobs with ease, this drone boasts double the payload capacity and 60% more thrust compared to its predecessors, making it a standout in the industrial drone market. Whether it’s LiDAR scanning, photogrammetry, infrastructure inspection, leak detection, or other specialized applications, the Astro Max delivers unmatched versatility and performance. Freefly’s legacy of building drones for high-value payloads—originally honed in Hollywood cinematography—shines through in this rugged, adaptable platform.

Key Specifications

The Astro Max is engineered for power and endurance:

• Payload Capacity: It supports heavy-duty payloads, with flight times rated at 28 minutes with a 1 kg (2.2 lbs) payload or 18 minutes with a 3 kg (6.6 lbs) payload. The “double the payload capacity” claim suggests a significant leap from prior models like the original Astro, likely from around 1.5 kg to 3 kg, opening doors to advanced sensors and multi-instrument setups.
• Thrust: A 60% increase in thrust, driven by newly designed Freefly high-performance motors, ensures stability and lift under load. This boost enhances its ability to handle complex missions in challenging conditions.
• Flight Time: With 28 minutes at 1 kg and 18 minutes at 3 kg, it strikes a strong balance between capacity and airtime, rivaling other industrial drones in its class.

Smart Dovetail: Expanding Payload Options

At the heart of the Astro Max is the Smart Dovetail, an open-source payload connector that streamlines integrations and expands compatibility. This innovative feature provides power and data communication, making it easier for Freefly and third-party developers to create payloads tailored to specific needs. Notable options include:

• Sony LR1 Payload: A 61-megapixel mapping and inspection camera designed for versatility. It offers four lens options and can integrate thermal modules and laser rangefinders, perfect for high-resolution photogrammetry or detailed inspections.
• AP LIDAR 1: An impressively lightweight LIDAR system that supports post-processing on an iPad for instant results, ideal for rapid data sharing in the field.

This open ecosystem ensures the Astro Max adapts to evolving workflows, from surveying to environmental monitoring.

Pilot Pro: Precision Control

The Astro Max pairs with the Freefly Pilot Pro, an intuitive all-in-one pilot station featuring an integrated tablet. This setup allows pilots to:

• Plan and execute missions with ease.
• View real-time LIDAR data and monitor multiple video feeds simultaneously.
• Leverage Position Slow Mode for precise control over speeds on every axis, enabling smooth, accurate maneuvers in tight or demanding environments—like bridge undersides or urban canyons.

This focus on pilot efficiency keeps the mission front and center, reducing operational complexity.

Advanced Features for Tough Environments

The Astro Max shines in challenging scenarios with cutting-edge capabilities:

• Hover Map STX: With a 300-meter range, this feature enables autonomous flight in GPS-denied or low-light environments. It’s a game-changer for ultra-precise LIDAR collection in complex settings like tunnels, forests, or industrial facilities.
• NDAA Compliance and Blue Approved: Certain configurations meet U.S. Government standards, making it eligible for defense or public safety applications.
• Portability: Recognizing that “not every task can be tackled from a truck,” the Astro Max is designed for easy transport, ensuring it’s ready for remote or on-the-go deployments.

Built to Last

Freefly has tested the Astro Max to an extraordinary standard, designing it to fly 8 hours a day, 365 days a year, for 5 years before its service life ends. That’s approximately 14,600 hours of operation—a testament to its durability. This longevity makes it a reliable workhorse for businesses, capable of delivering stunning imagery and precise datasets year after year.

Applications and Impact

The Astro Max excels across a range of industries:

• LIDAR Scanning: Paired with the Hover Map STX or AP LIDAR 1, it’s built for high-accuracy 3D mapping.
• Photogrammetry: The Sony LR1’s 61-megapixel sensor produces detailed 2D and 3D models.
• Inspection: Thermal and high-res imaging suit it for infrastructure like power lines or pipelines.
• Leak Detection: Specialized sensors can pinpoint gas or liquid leaks from above.

Freefly notes that as their machines evolve, they’re inspired by customers pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with drones. The Astro Max reflects this ethos, blending portability, power, and precision into a platform that adapts to any workflow.

Recent Developments

Launched just days ago on February 20, 2025, the Astro Max represents Freefly’s latest push into the industrial drone space. Its doubled payload capacity, enhanced thrust, and advanced features like autonomous LIDAR flight position it as a leader in 2025’s competitive market. As Drone Technology advances, the Astro Max sets a high bar for compact industrial aircraft, catering to professionals who demand reliability and flexibility.

Photos courtesy of FreeFly Systems.