Teams of 1-10 participants can now apply to AlphaPilot, a new Lockheed Martin Drone Racing Innovation Challenge to develop a high-speed racing drone that relies solely on Artificial Intelligence with no human intervention. The competition is an effort to encourage researchers, students, and anyone interested in AI to hone their skills and advance technology later down the road.
Lockheed Martin, an aerospace technology company, views drone racing as the sport of the future, especially because the technology attracts a younger generation, like students, many of whom will pursue careers in STEM. The company specifically focuses on furthering Artificial Intelligence that is autonomous and, once independent of humans, can enable civil, military, and commercial advancements.
While Lockheed Martin is targeting undergraduate and graduate students, any individuals over 18 are welcome to apply and get the chance to take home a $1 million prize. The selection process will take place in June of 2019, where finalists will receive additional tools to develop their drones and attend workshops where teams can meet and engage with experts in the AI field.
Registration is open until February of 2019, where the Qualification Process will commence. Lockheed Martin is collaborating with the Drone Racing League, which recently held DRL Allianz World Champion for professional drone racers, for the competition.
