Falcon Plus TDLAS methane detector
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The Falcon Plus is a TDLAS laser methane leak detector for drone, car-based and stationary surveys, used for oil and gas, pipeline and landfill inspections. HobiTech supplies it in India as an authorised SPH Engineering partner.
Technical
| Detection range | 10 to 40 metres |
| Response time | 25ms |
| Maximum survey speed | 30 m/s (108 km/h), drone-speed limited |
| Minimal detectable flow rate | 1g/h (approx. 500ppm) |
| Sensitivity | 0–100,000 ppm × m |
| Dimensions | 130 × 98 × 98mm |
| Weight | 360g |
| Methane laser safety class | Class 1 infrared |
| Pointer laser safety class | Class 3R |
| Real-time data | Yes |
| Data recording with georeferencing | Yes |
| RTK georeferencing | Yes |
Survey method comparison
| Average km/day — car / drone / helicopter | 200–300 / 80–100 / 500–700 |
| Terrain — car / drone / helicopter | Roads / Any / Any |
| Cost per hour — car / drone / helicopter | Medium / Low / High |
| Automation — car / drone / helicopter | Manual driving / Automatic / Manual piloting |
Additional required components
- SkyHub onboard computer by SPH Engineering (required)
- Compatible drone (required)
Documentation & data sets
What is the Falcon Plus used for?
The Falcon Plus measures methane with tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy (TDLAS). It works remotely: the infrared laser reads methane along its beam from 10 to 40 metres away, so the drone does not need to fly through the gas. Readings are given in ppm × m, the methane concentration along the laser path. A green Class 3R pointer shows exactly where the sensor is looking.
SPH Engineering lists three main uses: oil and gas facility inspections, pipeline monitoring and landfill methane screening. An integrated reference gas cell makes the system self-calibrating, so readings stay consistent between flights.
SPH Engineering states that the system meets the EUMR 2024/1787 Type 2 LDAR criteria: it can reliably detect 500 ppm from at least 40 m (above-ground inspection) and 1,000 ppm from at least 60 m (underground inspection).
How does it work with SkyHub, UgCS and your drone?
The sensor connects to the SkyHub onboard computer, which records methane readings with precise GPS coordinates. In UgCS you plan the flight and see live methane data, including full motion video with methane readings. SPH's DroneGIS then processes the data automatically.
SPH Engineering lists these compatible drones:
- DJI M300, M350 and M600
- Inspired Flight IF1200A
- Harris Aerial H6
- Wispr Ranger Pro
- SkyFront Perimeter 8
What do you need to run the Falcon Plus?
- SkyHub onboard computer (required)
- SkyHub software package for Methane detector: SkyHub firmware and a UgCS companion app for Laser Falcon and LMC detectors. It needs a SkyHub and a UgCS licence.
- Laser Falcon mountings for DJI drones
- A laser or radar altimeter for terrain following, such as SkyHub True Terrain Following with the LightWare SF30/D laser altimeter
- A UgCS licence for flight planning: see our UgCS page
- Optional: assembly and testing of the integrated system
See the full methane detection range, including the FluX Aero methane sniffer.
Why buy the Falcon Plus from HobiTech?
HobiTech is an authorised SPH Engineering partner based in Bengaluru, India. Every order comes with a GST invoice, and our local team supports the sensor, the drone and the software. SPH's methane detection training courses are also available through HobiTech. Read more on SPH Engineering's methane detection page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a TDLAS methane detector?
TDLAS stands for tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy. The detector sends an infrared laser beam and measures how much of it methane absorbs, so it can find gas from a distance without touching the plume.
How far away can the Falcon Plus detect methane?
SPH Engineering's product listing gives a detection range of 10 to 40 metres.
What is the smallest leak it can detect?
The minimal detectable flow rate is 1 g/h, approximately 500 ppm, with a response time of 25 ms.
Does the Falcon Plus meet EUMR 2024/1787?
SPH Engineering states that it meets the EUMR 2024/1787 Type 2 LDAR criteria: 500 ppm from at least 40 m above ground and 1,000 ppm from at least 60 m for underground inspection.
Can I use it without a drone?
Yes. SPH Engineering describes it for drone-based, car-based and stationary methane detection.
How do I buy the Falcon Plus in India?
Use Request a quote on this page, or call HobiTech on +91 70225 26509. We confirm the price and configuration, and every order comes with a GST invoice.