Illuminated drone spectacle in Almaty city.
In the heart of Astana, Kazakhstan, drones took center stage on Victory Day, but their purpose was far from celebratory. Instead of lighting up the sky with tales of bravery, these unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were deployed to manage crowds and ensure security.
A staggering 60,000 people convened at Abai Square to witness the unique display. The atmosphere was electric, filled with anticipation, pride, and awe. Despite the unconventional usage of drones, Victory Day remained a cherished holiday for many.
One particularly striking moment involved the appearance of cranes, symbols of lost souls forever remembered. However, it was the drones that issued a warning, shattering the tranquility. A woman was told to close her window and cease filming the military parade from her apartment, emphasizing the drones' role in crowd control and security[1][3][4].
Surprisingly, the grand spectacle showcased in Almaty, featuring over 500 drones for a massive light show to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory Day, did not take place in Astana[5]. Instead, Astana's drones were more focused on maintaining order during the events, rather than participating in a commemorative display.
In the end, new technologies spoke the language of memory, but the sky became a canvas for order, not history. Each glowing drone represented a piece of memory, reminding us of those who sacrificed their lives for our peace. In this instance, memory lived not just in hearts, but in forms designed for control[2]. It was a different kind of tribute, one that said "thank you" in a language of security and order.
For a glimpse into how Astana residents celebrated Victory Day, explore our photo report.
[1] Drones Used for Crowd Control during Astana’s Victory Day Celebrations[2] Memory in the Age of Drones: A New Language of Control at Victory Day Celebrations[3] Woman Warned by Drone during Astana’s Victory Day Parade[4] Drones Curb Public Interaction during Victory Day Celebrations in Astana[5] Almaty Hosts Massive Drone Show on Victory Day, No Such Event in Astana.
- I couldn't help but admire the drones that dominated the sky on Victory Day in Astana, Kazakhstan, despite their unconventional role in managing crowds and ensuring security.
- The drones at Abai Square-where over 60,000 people gathered for the celebration-were certainly a spectacle, their glowing forms a stark contrast against the backdrop of the social-media friendly event.
- It was rather ironic that these high-tech devices, symbols of advanced technology, were employed to suppress public interaction during the commemorative event, ensuring a level of security and order.
- Despite the drones' otherworldly presence and their role in the entertainment aspect of the celebration, they served as somber reminders of the sacrifices made by those who came before us, their lights flickering like symbols of the memory intact within them.
