GoPro's open and homemade firmware makes it easier to start shooting rockets regularly.

When you think of a sports camera, the first thing that comes to mind is GoPro. The company has opened a new function that allows users to control GoPro cameras through new functions developed by GoPro Labs. GoPro Labs allows users to use the functions developed by GoPro internal engineers, but it is unlikely to enter the official firmware. At present, there are several interesting functions, such as using QR code to set GoPro's timing to start shooting, motion detection, speed detection or sunrise and sunset detection, that is, shooting only when the object is moving, using built-in GPS to detect specific speed or calculate the time of sunrise or sunset, and changing the file size of each recording from 4GB to 12GB.

Keeping up with GoPro and Northrop Grumman's team, it is the fastest and likes new technology best. The rocket launch mission of the International Air Station is a very interesting example. These GoPro Hero8 black cameras have no external power supply and no Wi-Fi. They can only work on the small battery inside the camera, and they can't view the shooting results before the rocket is launched. Because it is too dangerous in the process, it is unlikely that someone will run around to control these GoPro cameras.

So they used the QR code function of GoPro Labs to set GoPro in advance with the QR code, and set GoPro to start recording a few minutes before the rocket launch. The final recording product was quite successful. Fortunately, GoPro was not destroyed by the fire from the rocket.

▲ Customize the firmware through GoPro Labs, and you can attach the plug-in function of QR code setting.

▲ International Space Station launch mission, using customized firmware and plug-in GoPro shooting.