Travel Business Review-November 19, 2018-Aurora Flight Sciences advances autonomous systems with Odysseus
solar-powered aircraftM2 EQUITYBITES-November 19, 2018-Aurora Flight Sciences advances autonomous systems with Odysseus
solar-powered aircraftWe're developing pioneering methods for modelling and designing flexible structures which could be applied in the future to things such as wind-turbine blades and
solar-powered aircraft. Computer tools are used to model how structures react to fluid flows and how that in turn affects the fluid itself.
This estimation has enabled the prediction of the usability of a
solar-powered aircraft in various parts of the world and its operation duration throughout the year.
Airbus Defence & Space's HAPS is a new type of
solar-powered aircraft designed to circle in the Earth's stratosphere, capable of launching, landing and re-deploying autonomously while delivering consistent, satellite-like Earth observation and communication services, at a fraction of the cost.
For example, the precision required to cut large mirrors for telescopes has improved laser eye surgery; materials created to soften spacecraft landings were modified for radial tires and memory foam; and research into
solar-powered aircraft was adapted to improve solar cells for residential, commercial, and other uses.
While a
solar-powered aircraft seems an unusual present to give to the less-than-tech-savvy pope, Zuckerberg's intention wasn't far off Pope Francis' message.
It took 13 years from start to finish, but in July the SolarImpulse team succeeded in its quest to fly a
solar-powered aircraft around the world.
On July 26, the
solar-powered aircraft Solar Impulse 2 returned to Abu Dhabi, from where it had taken off 16 months ago, after circumambulating the globe.