Technology is rapidly advancing providing humans with easier and more efficient ways to complete tasks. One form of technology used primarily by the military is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). UAV technology can play an important role to benefit the civilian world. This technology will make many tasks currently performed by humans more capable and extensive. What is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)? An unmanned aerial vehicle is an aircraft that is flown without the use of a crew or pilot. Instead, the unmanned aircraft is piloted by hardware, software and one or more people from the ground. The technical definition of "an 'unmanned aerial vehicle' is a powered aircraft that does not carry a human operator, uses aerodynamic forces to provide lift, can fly autonomously (via an onboard computer), and/or be remotely piloted ( via radio control), and can be recovered for repeated flights. It is an aerial robot. are not considered unmanned aerial vehicles” (Lewis). Unmanned aerial vehicle (UA) is also known as unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), unmanned aerial vehicle (UAS), drone, unmanned aerial vehicle (RPV). remotely piloted aircraft (ROA) or remotely piloted aircraft (RPA).History of UAVsThe technology used for unmanned aircraft dates back to 1863 during the Civil War. This technology, invented by Charles Perley, was an unmanned aerial bomber. Specifically, the bomber was a hot air balloon that could drop explosives. Perley's invention proved to be inaccurate and dangerous, but Union and Confederate forces are said to have launched it (K...... middle of document ......ov/centers/dryden /pdf/111761main_UAV_Capabilities_Assessment.pdf> .Koldaev, Alexander V. “NON-MILITARY UAV APPLICATIONS.” Web. 3 December 2009. .Krock, Lexi. “UAV History.” 19 November 2009. .Hanlon, Mike. the most advanced non-military UAV in the world." gizmag 19 November 2004: n. 19 November 2009. .Lewis, Pete. " UAV Forum. SRA International, Inc., Web. 19 November 2009. .Wise, Jeff civilians: no pilots, no problems Popular Mechanics April 2007. November 18 2009 .