Solar-Powered High-Altitude Unmanned Aircraft (Helios)
Summary:
AeroVironment, Inc., is developing a lightweight, solar-powered, high-altitude, unmanned aircraft called the Helios. Based on BMDO's Pathfinder prototype, the Helios is expected to stay aloft at an altitude of up to 65,000 feet for as long as six months at a time. It will offer a flexible, low cost alternative to satellites. AeroVironment expects to have a commercial model available before 2003.
Technology Description:
AeroVironment, Inc. (Monrovia, CA), is developing a lightweight, solar-powered, high-altitude, unmanned aircraft called the Helios. Using only solar power, the Helios will be expected to stay aloft at an altitude above 65,000 feet for up to six months at a time. AeroVironment developed Helios for NASA's Environmental Research and Aircraft and Sensor Technology (ERAST), which required the aircraft for high-altitude, long-duration science missions.
The Helios aircraft has eight electric motors to drive the propeller engines, as well as avionics, communications, and other electronic systems onboard. It will fly at an airspeed of approximately 17-21 mph, and is expected to carry a maximum payload of 220 pounds. Helios’ wingspan, stretching over 250 feet, is longer than a 747’s. Remotely piloted, Helios will have a fuel cell energy storage system that will store the energy it obtains during the day for nighttime flying. Its energy is obtained from solar arrays covering the upper wing.
MDA Origins:
Helios is based on an earlier, smaller prototype called the Pathfinder, which was developed for BMDO's Responsive Aircraft Program for Theater Operations (RAPTOR) program. BMDO was interested in developing an aircraft that would fly over enemy terrain at 65,000 feet for extended periods of time, watching for missiles.
The Pathfinder itself was based on an earlier AeroVironment project, the HALSOL (High-Altitude Solar Energy) aircraft, which was commissioned for a U.S. government program in 1981. AeroVironment refitted HALSOL by covering a third of the wings with solar cells; outfitting the plane with high-strength, permanent magnet motors; an efficient power control system; miniaturized electronics; and lightweight materials. Many of these developments were incorporated into Helios, leading to reduced weight, increased efficiency of electric propulsion systems, miniaturized digital autopilot and control systems, low-power autonomous navigation and control systems, improved structure for atmospheric turbulence, and unique aerodynamics controls/stability for aeroelastic wings.
Spinoff Applications:
Helios will offer a flexible, low-cost alternative to satellites. Helios flies high enough to perform many functions of a low earth orbit satellite. A telecommunications company could use it as a relay station, for instance, to complement their wireless coverage. A Helios aircraft will cost only $5 to $10 million to deploy, much cheaper than the $100 million or more needed to launch a satellite. And, with easy retrieval and replacement, companies could physically upgrade their equipment much more rapidly, allowing them to stay competitive. Equipment positioned at this lower height would require less power to send signals—saving in energy requirements. Helios-provided service could also enhance satellite cellular service by covering areas difficult to reach by satellite signals alone, such as in cities where skyscrapers block signal paths.
With a payload of lightweight sensors, the slow-moving, high-altitude airplanes could monitor atmospheric conditions and gather environmental data for government and commercial weather tracking services. Unlike aircraft powered by aviation fuel, the solar-powered Helios does not produce engine exhaust, which could affect sensor readings. The Helios can also track hurricanes. Staying above the storm, this aircraft can follow its progress, possibly eliminating the need to dispatch manned aircraft to fly into the storm itself.
Commercialization:
The Helios is now being tested and developed. A commercial model will be available before 2003.
Company Profile:
Founded in 1971 by Dr. Paul MacCready, AeroVironment, Inc., specializes in developing and producing innovate environmentally friendly products such as hybrid electric vehicles, solar-based energy systems, unmanned solar aircraft, and microturbines. It has 250 employees. The company produced the first successful, human-powered plane, called the Gossamer Condor.
Contact Information:
Joeseph Edwards, CFO - Vice President, New Ventures
AeroVironment, Inc.
222 East Huntington Dr Suite 200
Monrovia, CA 91016
Tel:626-357-9983
Fax:626-359-9628
web: www.avinc.com
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