AtlantikSolar logo.
July 18, 2015
AtlantikSolar in flight
An unmanned solar plane developed by the ETH Zurich flew continuously for 81.5 hours, breaking the world record. The model developed by the researchers is called "AtlantikSolar" and weighs only 7 kilos.
The craft landed Friday night after 19h to Rafz (ZH) and exploding the record for unmanned aircraft in the category under 50 kilograms. "AtlantikSolar" has exceeded some 33 hours precise ats to the project leader, Philipp Oettershagen.
Scientists have also managed another performance. So far, only four other aircraft - manned and unmanned - remained as long in the air.
The aircraft has a span of 5.6 meters and moves at an average speed of 35 to 40 kilometers per hour. A statement from the ETH Zurich, the machine combines solar technology with lithium-ion batteries.
AtlantikSolar recovery by a student
AtlantikSolar is conducted by autonomous control system (UAV), developed by the ETH Zurich. It is designed for rescue operations on a large scope and actions of research in crisis regions. The vehicle is part of the project of the European Union ICARUS.
In summer 2016 the team of scientists wants to meet with his solar plane's journey of the American flight pioneer Charles Lindbergh over the Atlantic. Scientists hope the machine can withstand crossing 4,500 kilometers, about five days, to connect Boston (USA) to Lisbon (Portugal).
Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Zurich (EPFZ) or Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich (ETHZ): https://www.ethz.ch/en.html
Images, Text, Credits: ETHZ/ATS/Orbiter.ch Aerospace.
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