When disasters knock out internet, cellular, and power, disaster responders and small businesses need comms that are fast, cheap, and independent. This talk proposes a practical, Off-Grid, open-source approach that marries two accessible technologies: 3D-printable, payload-capable FPV drones carrying small, ruggedized payloads that can deploy GPS-enabled, text-based LoRa mesh nodes and solar-backed repeaters to restore basic situational awareness, triage, and coordination within hours, not days.

Why now? Rapid innovation in hobbyist drones and proven wartime/off-grid adaptations have dropped costs and expanded capabilities; meanwhile, Meshtastic’s open ecosystem makes low-bit-rate messaging and GPS location sharing viable for community groups. Attendees will learn how to choose frames/components, navigate high-level legal/ethical boundaries, design resilient meshes, and deliver waterproof/fire-resistant handheld nodes to victims and responders. We’ll cover antenna elevation strategies (balloon, arborist lines, tall structures, perch-and-stare) and pre-incident solar repeater placements in high-risk regions.