The Qinetiq Zephyr has been airborne for 7 days and as I write this.... 2 hours and 23 minutes. Its still flying. I believe they are going for two weeks. It took off last Friday from the Yuma testing grounds in Arizona at 1440 BST (0640 local)
Its Friday night lets all raise a glass to them!!!
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i will toast them with a Pilsner today.
The Zephyr is the creation of Hampshire-based defence and research company QinetiQ.Launched by hand, the aircraft flies by day on solar power which is then used to recharge the lithium-sulphur batteries, which are used to power the aircraft by night.
The aircraft can provide a low-cost, persistent surveillance capability over months rather than days.
Zephyr's programme director Jon Saltmarsh said: 'The team has worked tirelessly over the past few years, making truly significant leaps forward in overall design and construction - and to see it successfully soar into the sky was fantastic.
'By being able to remain over a location for weeks or months at a time, it can usefully deliver a host of practical and more affordable solutions to both civil and military customers
Around 50 per cent larger than the previous Zephyr, technical changes now mean it has a 22.5m wingspan to accommodate more batteries that are combined with a totally new integrated power management system.
Launched by hand, the aircraft flies by day on solar power delivered by amorphous silicon solar arrays no thicker than sheets of paper that cover the aircraft's wings.
These are also used to recharge the lithium-sulphur batteries which are used to power the aircraft by night.
The entirely new aerodynamic shape and high 'T' tail also contribute to reduce drag and improve performance.
Zephyr's ultra-lightweight carbon-fibre design also means it weighs in at just over 50kg.
Unlike conventional manned or unmanned
I will certainly be joining in with a couple of quiet beers to toast your success and then a few more noisy ones!!
Thanks for posting Gary.
Gray.
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