What information is transmitted through a downlink?

• A. Telemetry
• B. Command
• C. Payload
• D. Beacon

Answer: (C)

Downlink is the data stream sent from the UAS back to the ground control station. The information typically transmitted this way is telemetry—the aircraft’s current state and sensor readings. This includes position and heading, altitude, airspeed, attitude (pitch, roll, yaw), battery voltage and health, GPS status, and any system faults. Telemetry lets the operator monitor the flight in real time and respond as needed. While payload data like video or sensor outputs can also be sent down the link, the core type of information described by downlink transmissions is telemetry. Commands, which adjust how the aircraft flies, come from the ground to the aircraft via the uplink, not the downlink. A beacon is a different signaling signal and isn’t the primary data transmitted in the downlink.