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Flying coronavirus-killer: How this drone fights COVID-19

The Aertos 120-UVC Indoor Disinfection Drone by Digital Aerolus can disinfect hard-to-reach places.

Andy Altman Director of Video Production
Andy Altman is a producer covering all things science and tech. He led production on CNET's award-winning limited documentary series Hacking the Apocalypse. He also created and co-hosts our video series What the Future.
Expertise Science, Renewable Energy, Aviation, Robotics Credentials
  • Webby Award Honoree 2023 - Science & Education, Gold Telly 2022 - Science and Technology, Gold Telly 2022 - Science and Technology Series, Gold Telly 2021 - Documentary Series, Silver Telly 2021 - Directing
Andy Altman
Digital Aerolus

A Kansas-based tech company found itself in a unique position to help address a crucial area in the fight against the coronavirus: keeping people out of places that have likely been exposed to COVID-19.

Digital Aerolus builds drones that are designed to go where people normally can't, or at least would prefer not to (think nuclear power plants and sewer systems). Most recently the company developed the Aertos 120-UVC drone, equipped with ultraviolet lights which are already used in hospitals and other facilities to kill viruses and bacteria. Operated by a pilot, the drone can disinfect surfaces without a person having to go near them.

CNET recently spoke with Digital Aerolus. Watch the video to see how the drone works.