Introducing Skydweller: The Solar-Powered Drone That Can Fly for 90 Days Straight
Skydweller Aero, a U.S. tech startup, has partnered with Thales to develop a solar-powered drone for maritime surveillance. With over 17,000 solar cells and a wingspan longer than a Boeing 747, Skydweller aims for continuous flight, powered by solar energy during the day and batteries at night. Weighing 160 times less than a jumbo jet, this drone operates at altitudes up to 34,400 feet, setting a new standard for long-term surveillance missions.
U.S. tech startup Skydweller Aero has partnered with Thales to develop a solar-powered drone for maritime surveillance. The drone aims for continuous flight, with an initial goal of 90 days aloft. It features over 17,000 solar cells across a 236-foot wingspan, generating up to 100 kilowatts of power. Solar energy powers flight, avionics, and charges batteries during the day, enabling almost continuous flight.
The drone, weighing 2.5 metric tons, flies at altitudes of 24,600 to 34,400 feet and can reach 44,600 feet during the day. It uses innovative technology to reduce aerodynamic loads caused by turbulence. Equipped with quadruple-redundant systems, the drone can self-heal algorithms and maintain flight even if a system fails. However, its patrol duration may be limited by battery degradation over time.
Skydweller Aero and Thales are working on enhancing the drone's capabilities for maritime surveillance. This advancement in solar-powered flight is a significant development for long-term surveillance operations.
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