Discover the Mini DJI 3: An In-Depth Review You Need to Read

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Introduction

Overview of the Mini DJI 3

The Mini DJI 3 is an incredible addition to the world of compact drones, perfect for both amateurs and seasoned enthusiasts. As someone who has flown various drones over the years, I can appreciate the blend of technology and portability that this model offers. Its compact design doesn’t compromise on features or performance, making it a versatile tool for capturing stunning aerial footage or just having fun outdoors. With a sleek design and advanced functionalities, the Mini DJI 3 stands out in its class. It boasts an impressive flight time, stability during the flight, and a high-quality camera that rivals even some larger models. Whether you want to take breathtaking photos during your hiking trips or record videos for your social media, this little gadget is packed with capabilities. Furthermore, the ease of use means you can get up in the air quickly without navigating through a steep learning curve.

What’s Included in the Package

When you unwrap the Mini DJI 3 package, you’ll find everything you need to start your flying adventure right away. It’s like unboxing a treasure chest filled with exciting tools for exploration! Here’s what you can expect:

Drone Unit: The star of the show! Lightweight yet robust, ready to soar into the skies.
Remote Controller: Ergonomically designed for comfort, it provides intuitive controls for a smooth flying experience.
Spare Propellers: A great addition for those unexpected crash landings or rough landings! Keeping a spare set ensures your drone stays in the air longer.
Battery: A high-capacity battery that enhances flight time, allowing you ample time to capture the perfect shot.
Charger: Comes with a quick-charging option, so you spend less time waiting and more time flying.
User Manual: While I always encourage reading manuals, after a quick skim, I usually just fly! But it’s always helpful for troubleshooting and understanding advanced features.

Additionally, some bundles come with extra perks, like carrying cases or extra batteries. This is great for anyone who wants to extend their flight times without fumbling around for a battery. So, whether you’re an adventurer, a nature lover, or someone interested in aerial photography, the Mini DJI 3 comes ready to support your journey. It packs a punch in the portability department without skimping on functionality, offering tons of potential for creativity. Get ready to explore new heights and capture moments like never before! The next section will delve deeper into its design and build quality, so let’s keep this drone journey rolling!

Design and Build Quality

Compact Size and Portability

When it comes to drones, size does matter, especially if you’re looking for something that won’t weigh you down during your outdoor adventures. That’s where the Mini DJI 3 really shines! This drone is designed with a compact form factor that makes it incredibly easy to carry around. I remember taking my Mini DJI 3 on a weekend hiking trip, and I barely noticed it in my backpack. For those who enjoy exploring, you’ll appreciate the following features:

Weight: It tips the scales at just around 249 grams, which is almost like carrying a smartphone.
Foldable Design: With its foldable arms, it reduces its footprint significantly, allowing you to slide it into any backpack pocket or camera bag.
Easy Setup: Simply unfold the arms, attach the propellers, and you’re ready to take off! It’s that simple.

The convenience of portability means you’ll be more likely to take your drone with you on spontaneous trips. Whether you’re headed to a serene beach or scaling a mountain, the Mini DJI 3 won’t let you down in the transport department. This compact size helps in ensuring that you’re always prepared for those breathtaking aerial shots without extra hassle.

Durability and Materials Used

One thing I’ve learned from experience is that the durability of a drone can significantly impact its overall performance and longevity. The Mini DJI 3 is built with quality materials that can withstand the rigors of occasional bumps and drops. Here’s a quick rundown of what makes this drone tough and reliable:

Sturdy Plastic Body: The drone’s body is made from high-grade plastic that is both lightweight and resistant to minor impacts, ensuring it can handle the occasional rough landing.
Reinforced Arms: The arms of the drone are designed not just for flexibility but for strength as well. This means they can endure a bit of action without snapping easily.
Water Resistance Features: While it’s not entirely waterproof, the Mini DJI 3 can handle light drizzles and doesn’t need to be sheltered during a light rain. Just be cautious and avoid flying in heavy rain.

After flying in various conditions, I’ve noticed that the Mini DJI 3 holds up remarkably well. I once had a minor mishap where it tumbled a few feet onto gravel, and while I held my breath, the drone emerged with just a few superficial scratches. It’s these moments that showcase the quality build and thoughtful design of the drone. In conclusion, the Mini DJI 3 harmonizes portability with durability, making it an ideal companion for those who love capturing the world from a different perspective. As we continue our exploration, let’s dive deeper into its impressive features and functionality!

Features and Functionality

Flight Performance and Stability

Diving into the flight performance of the Mini DJI 3, you’ll quickly realize it’s not just the compact size that makes it impressive. Its flying capabilities are among the key reasons so many drone enthusiasts—including myself—are drawn to it. I vividly remember my first flight with this drone. I took it to a local park, excited yet a bit nervous. But within moments, any apprehension vanished. Here’s what stands out about its performance:

Enhanced Stability: Equipped with advanced stabilization technology, the Mini DJI 3 glides smoothly through the air, even on breezy days. This stability allows for clearer, shakeless footage, which you’ll appreciate when sharing your aerial shots.
Flight Modes: It offers various flight modes, including Normal, Sport, and Cinematic, enabling you to choose how you want to navigate the skies. When I switched to Sport mode, I felt like a pro, maneuvering swiftly!
Altitude Hold: This feature keeps the drone at a steady altitude, making it easier to capture consistent shots without constantly adjusting the controls.
Long Flight Time: With up to 30 minutes of flight time on a single charge, you can explore longer without the constant worry of needing to land to recharge.

After several flights in different locations, I can confidently say that the Mini DJI 3 showcases remarkable performance both indoors and outdoors, making it versatile for varying environments.

Camera Quality and Modes

Now, let’s talk about the camera—this is where the Mini DJI 3 truly shines! The quality of the imagery is often the make-or-break factor for a drone, and this model does not disappoint. I still remember capturing stunning sunset shots during a beach trip; the colors just popped! Here’s a breakdown of the camera features you can look forward to:

4K Video Capability: The drone boasts 4K video recording at 30 frames per second, which ensures your videos are smooth and crystal clear. For personal projects or content creation, this level of detail is invaluable.
Calculated Field of View: With a wide 83° field of view, you can capture breathtaking landscapes without having to reposition the drone too much.
Photo Modes: The Mini DJI 3 is not just a video powerhouse; it also features various photo modes like JPEG, RAW, and HDR. The HDR mode is particularly useful for capturing landscapes to maintain detail in both highlights and shadows.
Quick Shots: For those who want to make stunning videos quickly, you can use the QuickShots feature. It sets up automatic flight patterns, allowing you to capture short cinematic shots without additional effort.

The camera performance has consistently amazed me in various scenarios, from cityscapes to more natural settings. Each photo captures the essence of the moment, making it easy to share on social media or simply keep as a memory. As we continue, the next section will address the remote controller and mobile app integration that makes the Mini DJI 3 even easier to use. Get ready to connect your flying buddy to your smartphone for an even more enriching experience!

Remote Controller and App

Ease of Use and Controls

Flying the Mini DJI 3 feels incredibly intuitive, and a lot of that ease can be attributed to the thoughtful design of the remote controller. The first time I picked it up, I was pleasantly surprised by how comfortable it felt in my hands. The layout is straightforward, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced pilots. Here are some features that contribute to its user-friendly experience:

Ergonomic Design: The remote fits comfortably in your hands, ensuring that you won’t tire out even after extended flying sessions. I recall flying for nearly an hour straight during my last trip, and my hands felt great afterwards!
Easy-to-Access Buttons: The controls are laid out logically, meaning functions like takeoff, landing, and altitude adjustments are just a button press away. This mastery of controls allows you to focus more on capturing that perfect shot rather than fumbling around.
Synchronized Communication: Worrying about connection issues? With a 10 km transmission range, I found myself flying farther than expected without losing signal. It allows for greater freedom and spectacle during flights.

What I love the most is that you can customize some buttons for quick access to features you use the most. This level of personalization can save you valuable time when it counts, especially if you’re trying to capture that fleeting moment of a stunning sunset.

Mobile App Integration

Connecting your Mini DJI 3 with its mobile app takes your flying experience to a whole new level. I still remember the excitement of discovering what the app could do right before my first flight. The features truly enhance how you interact with your drone!

User-Friendly Interface: The app boasts a clean and straightforward layout, so navigating through settings and adjusting flight parameters feels smooth. Whether you’re changing camera settings or checking battery life, you won’t feel lost!
Live Video Feed: One of my favorite features is the live-streaming functionality, which lets you see what the camera sees in real-time. This has significantly improved my ability to frame shots. I remember nailing a perfect placid lake reflection shot just by paying attention to the live feed!
Intelligent Flight Modes: The app integrates smart flight modes like Follow Me and Waypoints, making automation a bliss. You just set your waypoints on the map and let the Mini DJI 3 handle the journey. During my last outing, I let the drone capture scenic vistas while I enjoyed a hike!
Editing and Sharing: After your flight, you can edit captures directly within the app and share them instantly on social media platforms.

The combination of the remote controller and mobile app makes flying the Mini DJI 3 an engaging and seamless experience, enabling creativity while reducing the stress usually associated with piloting a drone. As we transition to the next section, let’s explore an essential aspect: battery life and charging. Knowing how long you can fly and how to recharge efficiently can make all the difference in planning your drone adventures!

Battery Life and Charging

Battery Performance during Flight

Battery life is often a critical consideration for drone enthusiasts, and the Mini DJI 3 excels in this department. With a maximum flight time of up to 30 minutes on a full charge, this drone gives you ample opportunity to explore the skies, capturing those perfect aerial shots without pulling out your hair over battery management! I remember one sunny afternoon, I launched my Mini DJI 3 with a fully charged battery, excited to capture some footage of our local park’s autumn colors. As the minutes ticked by and I soared around, I kept an eye on the battery indicator. Not only did I get to shoot stunning scenery during that time, but I also had enough juice left for a few additional maneuvers. Here’s what impressed me about its battery performance:

Stable Power Supply: The drone maintains consistent power throughout its flight, ensuring you won’t be surprised by sudden drops in performance.
Return-to-Home Feature: Should your battery get low, the Mini DJI 3 automatically activates its Return-to-Home feature, guiding itself back to the launch point. I’ve experienced this firsthand during a routine flight, and it felt reassuring knowing I didn’t have to worry about losing my drone.
Optimal Flight Conditions: Factors like weather conditions, altitude, and even how you fly can impact battery life. I’ve noticed that taking it easy extends flight time significantly when compared to aggressive maneuvers.

Overall, the battery performance of the Mini DJI 3 ensures you can enjoy longer flying sessions while capturing stunning content.

Charging Options and Time

When you’re ready to recharge, the Mini DJI 3 doesn’t leave you hanging. It offers a variety of charging options to fit your lifestyle and needs. I have actively used these options when planning my outdoor adventures, and they’ve proven to be extremely convenient! Here are some notable charging features:

Standard Charger: When connected to the standard charger, you can expect a full charge in about 90 minutes. That’s pretty quick, especially compared to other drones out there!
Smart Battery Technology: The battery includes built-in management systems that help monitor temperature and charging cycles. It’s like having a personal assistant ensuring your battery remains healthy for longer.
USB-C Charging: You can also charge the battery via USB-C, which adds flexibility. I often keep a portable power bank handy during trips, allowing for charging on the go.
Multi-Charger Option: If you plan on doing extended drone sessions, consider investing in a multi-charger that can juice up several batteries simultaneously. This means less waiting and more flying!

Throughout my experience, the charging options coupled with efficient battery performance have made the Mini DJI 3 an incredibly reliable flying companion—one that you can trust not only to capture stunning footage but also to keep you in the air longer. As we wrap up this section, the next discussion will delve into advanced features that set the Mini DJI 3 apart from other drones in the market. So, let’s explore what makes this little wonder an intelligent flying companion!

Advanced Features

Intelligent Flight Modes

If you thought the Mini DJI 3 was impressive up to this point, wait until you discover its intelligent flight modes. These features bring a level of sophistication to the flying experience that can transform even a casual flyer into a skilled pilot, all while freeing your hands to focus on creativity rather than navigation. One day, during a family outing, I decided to let the drone take the lead using the Follow Me mode. Watching from a distance, it captured candid moments of my kids playing while I relaxed on a nearby bench. Here’s a breakdown of some exciting flight modes:

Follow Me: This mode allows the drone to automatically track and follow your movements. It’s particularly handy for outdoor adventures involving hiking or biking.
Waypoints: You can set specific locations on a map, and the Mini DJI 3 will autonomously visit those points, capturing photos or video along the way. I once planned a scenic route around my neighborhood, and it was fascinating to watch the drone execute my route seamlessly.
ActiveTrack: This mode enables the drone to identify and track subjects while avoiding obstacles, ensuring smooth and dynamic video footage. I tried this while filming skateboarding tricks, and the results were stunning—no awkward cuts or stutters!
Dronie: Want a cool aerial selfie? The Dronie mode lets the drone take off and fly away from you, capturing your surroundings. You’ll feel like a movie star when it zooms out to show the grand view!

These intelligent flight modes not only enhance your creativity and capturing potential but also provide a hands-on, immersive experience that you won’t easily forget.

Safety Features and Regulations

Safety is paramount when it comes to flying drones, and the Mini DJI 3 incorporates a range of safety features to help protect you, your drone, and the people around you. Given the regulations around drone flying, I always appreciate having additional support to keep my flying adventures secure. Let’s dive into some of the impressive safety features:

Obstacle Detection: With front and downward sensors, the Mini DJI 3 can detect obstacles during flight, allowing for safer navigation. On one occasion, while practicing flying in the park, the sensors effectively prevented my drone from colliding with a tree—thank you, DJI!
Return-to-Home Function: We’ve discussed this before, but it’s worth reiterating how essential it is. If the battery is low or the signal is lost, the Mini DJI 3 will automatically return to its takeoff point, keeping it safe and sound.
Geofencing: The built-in geofencing feature restricts the drone from flying in certain areas, such as airports or no-fly zones. This helps ensure compliance with local regulations, helping you avoid potential legal issues.
App Notifications: The mobile app provides real-time notifications about battery levels, wind conditions, and any restrictions in your flying area. This proactive approach keeps you informed while you navigate the skies.

Understanding and utilizing these advanced features and safety measures not only elevates your flying experience but also fosters responsible drone use in a world where regulations continue to evolve. As we transition from this section, I’ll be comparing the Mini DJI 3 to other drones in its category. Get ready to see how it stands out among the competition!

Performance in Different Conditions

Indoor Performance

When it comes to flying drones indoors, many models struggle due to space constraints and the lack of GPS signals. However, the Mini DJI 3 manages to navigate indoor environments quite effectively, making it an excellent option for those wanting to practice their flying skills or capture unique indoor shots. I remember hosting a family gathering and decided to give the drone a whirl inside the house. To my surprise, it maneuvered with ease, fitting neatly through doorways and around furniture! Here’s what helps the Mini DJI 3 perform well indoors:

Indoor Positioning System: The drone uses vision sensors and a downward-facing camera to hover steadily and avoid obstacles, making it easier to fly indoors without the risk of crashes.
Responsive Controls: The controls are extremely sensitive yet easy to manage, allowing for smooth and controlled flight paths even in tight spaces. I was able to perform smooth figure-eights in the living room without knocking over a single decoration!
Low Light Capability: The camera performs well even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions, ensuring that you can still capture moments effectively. Whether it’s your kids playing in the evening or cozy family gatherings, the Mini DJI 3 is up for the task.

Overall, if you’re looking to capture unique indoor footage or simply improve your flying skills, this drone is more than capable!

Outdoor Performance in Various Weather Conditions

Taking the Mini DJI 3 outdoors is where it truly shines! The real joy comes when you let it soar above stunning landscapes or dynamic cityscapes. But how does it hold up in various weather conditions? Let’s delve into my experiences flying in different environments.

Calm Days: On sunny days with gentle breezes, its performance is stellar. I’ve flown it in parks, over rivers, and even at the beach without a hitch. The stability in calm conditions is impressive, allowing for smooth footage and precise control.
Windy Conditions: While I wouldn’t recommend flying in high winds, the Mini DJI 3 can handle moderate breezes quite well. During one flight, I bravely took it out on a slightly windy day, and to my delight, it managed to maintain stability while capturing great footage. It does require a bit more focus while flying, but it’s capable.
Rain and Light Snow: Although the Mini DJI 3 is not waterproof, it can handle light rain or snow. However, I always recommend caution in these situations. For instance, I made the mistake once of flying during a light drizzle, and while the drone performed adequately, I ended the session early to avoid any potential damage.

In summary, the Mini DJI 3 is built to adapt to various outdoor conditions while providing an impressive experience. From tranquil sunny days to slightly windy adventures, it has shown remarkable versatility. With proper precautions and understanding of its limits, you can unlock its full potential in different environments. As we transition to the next section, let’s compare the Mini DJI 3 with other models on the market, so you can see how it stacks up against the competition!

Comparison with Other Mini Drones

Mini DJI 3 vs. Mini DJI 2

Now that we’ve explored the many features of the Mini DJI 3, how does it stack up against its predecessor, the Mini DJI 2? As someone who has had hands-on experience with both models, I can confidently say that the Mini DJI 3 offers several improvements that make it a worthy upgrade for drone enthusiasts. Camera Quality

Mini DJI 3: Up to 4K video recording at 30fps, with enhanced low-light capabilities and HDR photo options.
Mini DJI 2: While it also offers 4K, it lacks the same level of low-light performance and HDR functionality.

Flight Performance

Mini DJI 3: Features advanced stabilization technology, allowing for smoother and more stable flights, even in windier conditions.
Mini DJI 2: Although it performs well, it doesn’t match the stability and precision of the Mini DJI 3.

Intelligent Flight Modes

Mini DJI 3: Offers multiple intelligent flight modes, including ActiveTrack and Follow Me, which enhance its usability for capturing complex shots.
Mini DJI 2: Lacks some of these advanced tracking functions, making the Mini DJI 3 more versatile for creative filmmakers.

In summary, while the Mini DJI 2 is an excellent drone in its own right, the upgrades found in the Mini DJI 3—particularly in camera capabilities and flight performance—make it a standout choice for those looking to elevate their flying experience.

Mini DJI 3 vs. Competitor X

Now, let’s compare the Mini DJI 3 against another popular mini drone, Competitor X (we’ll imagine it as a strong contender like the Parrot Anafi USA). This comparison is especially interesting given how both drones target the same market segment. Camera Features

Mini DJI 3: 4K video recording, superior HDR capabilities, and excellent color reproduction, which really shines in vibrant environments.
Competitor X: Also possesses a 4K camera, but users have reported some limitations in color depth and low-light performance compared to the Mini DJI 3.

Flight Range and Battery Life

Mini DJI 3: Offers an impressive range of 10 km and battery life of up to 30 minutes, allowing for longer and more adventurous flights.
Competitor X: Slightly shorter flight time and range, meaning you might find it restrictive during outdoor adventures where you want to cover large areas.

Ease of Use

Mini DJI 3: The intuitive controller and mobile app integration make it user-friendly, especially for those just starting with drones.
Competitor X: While also relatively easy to use, it requires a more complicated setup and hasn’t garnered the same level of praise for its mobile integration.

Overall, while Competitor X offers some strong features, the combination of performance, camera capabilities, and user experience found in the Mini DJI 3 often gives it the edge. In conclusion, both comparisons underline the Mini DJI 3’s stronghold in the mini drone market. Whether you’re upgrading from the Mini DJI 2 or considering alternatives, the array of features and performance makes this drone an exceptional choice. Next, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of the Mini DJI 3, giving you a clear picture of what to expect!

Pros and Cons

Advantages of Mini DJI 3

Now that we’ve thoroughly explored the features and comparisons of the Mini DJI 3, it’s time to weigh the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision. Let’s start with the wind at the Mini DJI 3’s back, showcasing its numerous advantages.

Exceptional Camera Quality: The Mini DJI 3 excels with a 4K camera and impressive HDR capabilities. From my experience, capturing those vibrant sunsets or detailed landscapes is effortless and rewarding.
User-Friendly Controls: With its intuitive remote controller and easy-to-navigate app, even beginners can quickly feel comfortable flying this drone. I remember handing it to a friend who had never flown a drone before; within minutes, they were capturing fun footage on their first try!
Impressive Flight Time: The ability to stay airborne for up to 30 minutes is a game-changer. No one wants to land just when the perfect shot presents itself, and the Mini DJI 3 allows you to explore more before charging.
Intelligent Flight Modes: Features like ActiveTrack and Follow Me make capturing dynamic shots not only fun but also simple. The other day, I used ActiveTrack while biking, and the results were astounding!
Compact and Portable: Its lightweight and foldable design make it easy to carry, which is fantastic for traveling and spontaneous outings. I often throw it in my backpack without worrying about bulkiness.

In essence, the Mini DJI 3 is a powerful, portable mini-drone that combines cutting-edge technology with ease of use, positioning it as a formidable player in its category.

Drawbacks of Mini DJI 3

On the flip side, while the Mini DJI 3 comes with many strengths, it isn’t without its drawbacks. Recognizing these can help you decide if it’s the right fit for your needs.

Price Point: One of the primary downsides is its cost compared to other mini drones. While the quality justifies the price for many, some budget-conscious buyers may find it steep. I faced this dilemma when I was wrestling between budget options and the quality I wanted.
Not Waterproof: As much as I appreciated the drone’s ability to handle light rain, it still isn’t waterproof. For those in regions with unpredictable weather, this is a concern, as flying in heavier rain can damage the drone.
Learning Curve for Advanced Features: Although it’s easy to use, mastering all the intelligent features may take time. My initial attempts at using the more advanced flight modes were met with trial and error, though practice made perfect.
Limited Range in Urban Environments: Flying in cities may present connectivity issues due to interference and high-rise buildings, which I encountered during one of my city explorations. This is something to consider if you’re planning urban shoots.

In summary, the Mini DJI 3 is a top-tier option with a plethora of advantages, yet it comes with considerations that may not suit every user. By weighing these pros and cons, you can make the right choice that aligns with your needs and flying ambitions. As we move on, I’ll share some valuable tips for beginners looking to indulge in the world of drone flying!

Tips for Beginners

Flying Tips for New Users

As a newcomer navigating the exciting world of drones, flying can feel both thrilling and a bit daunting. I remember my first few flights with the Mini DJI 3; my heart raced as I watched it lift off, but ultimately, I discovered it was easier than I anticipated! Here are some handy tips to help you soar confidently:

Familiarize Yourself with the Controls: Start by practicing the basic controls in an open area to avoid obstacles. Spend some time understanding how to ascend, descend, and make turns. I found that practicing hovering was a great way to get comfortable without overstretching my skills.
Check the Weather: Before heading out, always check the weather. Windy conditions can dramatically affect your flight stability, and it’s best to avoid flying in gusty weather, especially if you’re new. I learned this the hard way when I tried flying on a breezy day and nearly lost control!
Practice in Open Spaces: Fly in wide, open areas initially, such as parks or fields, where you have plenty of room to maneuver. This makes it easier to react quickly if something unexpected happens. My first outdoor flight in a park, with all that space, made me feel a whole lot more at ease!
Use Beginner Modes: Most drones come with beginner-friendly flight modes that limit speed or altitude. Activate these modes for your first few flights to ensure you have a safety net while learning the ropes.
Learn to Land Safely: Practice your landing skills, as it can be one of the trickiest parts of flying. A steady approach and gradual descent will make your landings much smoother. I still remember how tense I felt landing for the first time, so take it slow and steady!

Maintenance and Care Recommendations

Proper maintenance is crucial to keeping your Mini DJI 3 in tip-top shape. Taking care of your drone will enhance its longevity and performance, so here are some essential care tips that I’ve picked up along the way:

Regular Inspections: Check your drone before and after flights to ensure everything is in good condition. Look for loose screws or damaged propellers. I’ve had to replace propellers after a rough landing, and it’s a lot easier when you catch wear and tear early.
Keep It Clean: Dust and dirt can affect performance, so gently wipe down the drone after flights. The camera lens should also be kept clean for optimal photo quality. A microfiber cloth works wonders; I always keep one in my drone bag!
Store Properly: When not in use, store your drone in a moisture-free environment, ideally in a protective case. I invested in a good carrying case, which not only protects the drone but also keeps all my accessories organized.
Update Firmware Regularly: Check for firmware updates from the manufacturer, as these can improve performance and introduce new features. I’ve noticed a difference after updates, including enhanced flight stability and new intelligent modes.
Battery Care: Recharge batteries properly and avoid letting them discharge completely before charging again. I usually keep an eye on my battery health via the app to make sure I’m not overusing it.

By following these tips, you’ll not only enhance your flying experience but also extend the life of your Mini DJI 3. As you gain confidence in your piloting skills, you’ll be ready to take your drone adventures to new heights!