Skycam, the camera from above

Skycam is the trademarked brandname of a patented, computer-controlled, stablizied, flying camera system. The camera is moved through three dimentions in open space over a playing area of a stadium or arena by a computer-controlled cable-drive system. The camera is responsible for bringing video game-like camera angles to televised sports coverage. The camera weighs less than 30 pounds and can travel as fast as 30 mph. Skycam was first debuted in 2001 during NBC's coverage of the XFL, a league that does not exist anymore. ESPN first used the camera in 2001 preseason games and then continued to use it for their Sunday Night Football broadcasts and now Monday Night Football broadcasts since 2002. Skycam has been used for NCAA football, Monday Night Football, and Superbowl XXXVII, as well as the NHL, NBA, and NASCAR. The Skycam has also been used at the 17th hole at The Players Championship at Sawgrass. The camera consists of 3 parts, the reel, spar, and central control. They all play a key role in the operation of the camera and the production of the television coverage. Since its introduction, Skycams have been used really well and have had little to no problems, except for one game in 2007 where an NFL game between the Seahawks and the Saints had to be delayed because the camera was flown into the field.