University of South Dakota Using Drone to Capture Images for Marketing

VERMILLION, S.D. (AP) — The University of South Dakota is taking to the air to capture video used in marketing the Vermillion campus.

The Volante reports USD bought its first unmanned aerial vehicle, or drone, and used the tiny craft during last week's move-in day.

Communications director Tena Haraldson says it's intended to capture outdoor campus shots but could also be used inside the DakotaDome.

The white drone cost $1,300, has four propellers, can fly at more than 30 mph and is equipped with a high-definition camera and technology to keep it steady.

Haraldson says Vermillion's airport is not a controlled air space, so the drone won't be a safety hazard to other aircraft.

The long-term legality of drones by public universities is still unclear.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.