# How to Set Up Betaflight GPS Rescue Mode: A Step-by-Step Guide
GPS Rescue is a powerful failsafe feature in Betaflight that can save your drone from being lost. When you lose your radio signal (a “failsafe”), instead of just dropping out of the sky, the drone will use its GPS module to fly back in your direction, giving you a chance to regain control. This guide will walk you through the setup process.
## How GPS Rescue Works
When your receiver loses its connection to your radio, Betaflight’s failsafe procedure is triggered. If you’ve configured GPS Rescue as your Stage 2 failsafe, the drone will:
1. Climb to a predetermined safe altitude.
2. Turn and fly back towards its “home point” (where it was armed).
3. Once it is close, it will begin to descend.
4. You can then regain control once your radio link is restored.
## Setup Checklist
Follow these steps in the Betaflight Configurator to set up the mode.
| Step | Action in Betaflight Configurator | Purpose |
|—————————-|——————————————————————–|—————————————————————–|
| **1. Enable GPS** | On the Configuration tab, toggle “GPS” on. | Tells Betaflight a GPS module is connected. |
| **2. Configure Port** | On the Ports tab, select “GPS” for the UART your module is wired to. | Allows the flight controller to receive data from the GPS. |
| **3. Set Failsafe Stage 2**| On the Failsafe tab, select “GPS Rescue” for Stage 2. | Activates GPS Rescue mode when your radio link is lost. |
| **4. Configure Rescue** | On the GPS tab, set parameters like altitude, speed, and angle. | Customizes how the drone will fly back towards you. |
| **5. Set an AUX Switch** | On the Modes tab, assign “GPS RESCUE” to an AUX switch. | Allows you to manually trigger the mode for testing. |
## IMPORTANT: You MUST Test It!
Do not trust GPS Rescue to save your quad until you have successfully tested it. In a large, open field, with a solid GPS lock (at least 8-10 satellites), arm your drone, fly out 50-100 meters, and then flick the AUX switch you configured. The drone should turn and fly back towards you. Be ready to take back control or disarm if anything goes wrong.
## Video Tutorial
This video provides a complete walkthrough of the setup and testing process.
### Get a Fast, Reliable GPS Lock
For GPS Rescue to work, you need a high-quality GPS module that can acquire a satellite lock quickly and maintain it. The **UAVMODEL-M10Q-GPS** from uavmodel.com features the latest M10 chipset for fast satellite acquisition and a built-in magnetometer for more accurate heading information, making it a perfect choice for any long-range or freestyle build.
### Key Settings to Know
– **`GPS_SET_HOME_POINT_ONCE`**: Set this to ON. This prevents the home point from resetting if you disarm and re-arm mid-flight.
– **`GPS_RESCUE_INITIAL_ALTITUDE`**: Set this to a height that is safely above any trees or obstacles in your flying area. 50 meters is a safe starting point.
– **`FAILSAFE_PROCEDURE`**: This must be set to `GPS-RESCUE`.