Skydio R10 obstacle avoidance is most reliable in the forward-facing (180°) field of view.
The drone maintains a coarse obstacle map (~12 m × 12 m × 6 m) based on recently observed surroundings. This allows the drone to safely move in directions that are not currently within the camera’s field of view, such as reversing along a previously observed path.
[warning] Obstacle avoidance is most reliable in the forward-facing (180°) field of view. The drone uses current and recently-observed environment data to determine where it can safely fly. If sufficient obstacle data is not available in a given direction, the Skydio R10 will restrict movement rather than proceed unsafely. Obstacle avoidance is disabled when landing is initiated. Exercise extreme care to avoid injury or damage. Do not touch spinning propellers. [/warning]
Obstacle Memory
Obstacle data decays after approximately 30 seconds. If an area has not been observed within that time, it is no longer considered safe for autonomous movement.
Flight Modes
Use the Flight Mode button to adjust autonomous flight behaviors. When flying near obstacles, Skydio R10 follows the selected distance setting and automatically adjusts input sensitivities.
Choose between Indoor(default), Outdoor, and Confined:
Indoor (default)
Drone stays 8 in (20 cm) away from obstacles
Top air speed: ~11 mph (5 m/s)
Outdoor
Drone stays 28 in (71 cm) away from obstacles
Top air speed: ~27 mph (12 m/s)
Confined
Drone stays 2 in (5 cm) from obstacles
Top air speed: ~7 mph (3 m/s)
This mode can be used to navigate tight spaces, but increases the risk of collision. The drone will provide slight course corrections, but primarily relies on the Pilot to avoid collisions.
Disabled
Skydio R10willnotavoidobstacles and there is a high risk of collision
Top air speed: ~27 mph (12 m/s)
[caution] Disabled obstacle avoidance greatly increases the risk of collision and should only be used if you are an experienced pilot. Skydio recommends turning down controller throttle, roll, and pitch sensitivity to a lower setting and proceeding at a maximum speed of 2 mph (1 m/s). [/caution]