How does cold temperature affect lithium polymer (LiPo) battery performance in a small UAS?
Why →
LiPo batteries rely on electrochemical reactions that are temperature-dependent. Cold slows those reactions, increases internal resistance, and reduces both capacity and voltage output. A battery providing 20 minutes of flight at 70°F may deliver only 12–15 minutes at 35°F. Cold takeoffs demand higher current during the initial flight phase.The trap →
Cold does NOT increase battery capacity. The opposite of reality. The "cold improves electronics" intuition comes from semiconductor cooling, not electrochemistry. Cold consistently degrades battery performance.SOURCE → FAA Remote Pilot Study Guide, Aircraft Performance / Manufacturer documentationCHECKED APR 21ACS IV.A.K3MED