What were the risks involved in Hong Kong’s cancelled drone shows and can lessons be learned?

Hong Kong cancelled two drone shows organised to mark National Day this week after their navigation systems were affected by solar activities.

But across the border, Shenzhen was able to press ahead with its drone shows, held at roughly the same time.

The Post examines why Hong Kong had to ground the devices while its neighbour went ahead with the shows.

1. What happened to the drones?

Hong Kong authorities announced the cancellation of a drone performance at the West Kowloon Cultural District just minutes before it was due to start on Tuesday night, with some residents expressing disappointment upon hearing the news.

Authorities said ionospheric scintillation left the devices unable to receive strong satellite positioning signals.

The astronomical phenomenon, which is mainly caused by solar activity, leads to a poor GPS signal.

The ionosphere is located at an altitude of 80km (49.7 miles) to about 600km. Commercial aircraft fly at an altitude of about 10km. It also reflects and modifies radio waves that are used for communication and navigation.