Apple's new 'spaceship' headquarters unveiled with commercially available drone and camera
A YouTube user has uploaded the world’s first footage of Apple’s ‘Campus 2 space ship' base, using a drone and digital camera.
A photographer, who has previously captured building footage using drone-mounted cameras under the pseudonym ‘Jmcminn’, uploaded the video which now has half a million views.
The birds-eye view of Apple’s mysterious headquarters is legal under Californian law as low-altitude flights do not encompass trespass - nor do they cause any harm to the property. However, the site is still under construction and as a result is sealed to the public.
Using a commercially available DJI Phantom Two drone, the footage was shot on a GoPro camera. The eight-minute clip shows the basic layout of the base's massive 175 acre site, including a large subterranean passage along its circular foundations.
YouTube commenters compared the circular site, based in Cupertino, California, to a spaceship, due to its massive saucer-like shape.
Upon completion in 2016, the base will be covered with vegetation and underground car parks will house vehicles. Additionally, the base will provide 1,000 bikes to workers to shorten commutes in an eco-friendly way.
The headquarters will house 13,000 employees and will have extensive facilities including a 1,000 seat auditorium, a gym, a farm and 300,000 square feet dedicated to research.
According to Apple, the building’s construction has already exceeded its budget by £1.32bn - bringing the overall costs up to £3.14bn.
This week, Apple will unveil the new iPhone 6 at its headquarters in Cupertino, the iWatch may also make an appearance at the event.