It’s well known that air travel isn’t the most environmentally friendly way to get from A to B. With more and more people and governments becoming concerned about climate change, it’s only natural that engineers have been looking at ways to make air travel greener.
One option is solar-powered aircraft, with the possibility of this natural energy being harnessed for air travel now one step closer.
Aerospace Testing International reported on the successful first test of the autonomous systems of the Elektra Two Solar Optionally Piloted System (OPS).
German company PC-Aero is behind the innovation, which not only allows an aircraft to fly using solar power, but that is also capable of autonomous flight.
On 30 August this year, the aircraft performed a series of test flights to check its OPS. Although a pilot was onboard, they did not need to intervene at any stage during any of the flights, the firm stated.
Managing director of PC-Aero Dr Konstantin Kondak commented: “We have taken a giant step towards the stratosphere and are very optimistic that we will be able to fly in a short time with our next aircraft at altitudes up to 20km.”
Photovoltaic cells are mounted on the aircraft’s wings and tail, which generate energy that’s transferred to batteries that supply the power to its motor.
According to the company, these models should allow for “almost unlimited” flight duration, as the aircraft won’t need to land to refuel.
Earlier this year, the UK launched its National Aerospace Research Consortium with the aim of exploring aircraft of the future, new propulsion methods, and electric aircraft, among other things.
If you need assistance with aerospace engineering in the UK, contact us to find out more about our services.