BAE Systems’ solar-electric PHASA-35 drone completed its first stratospheric flight over a 24-hour period, soaring to more than 66,00 feet before landing successfully in New Mexico. The data collected will be used by engineers to assess the performance of their experimental solar-electric aircraft within the outer-reaches of Earth’s atmosphere.
PHASA-35 has a 35 meter (114.8 foot) wingspan and is capable of carrying a 15 kg (33 lb) payload. It utilizes various world-leading technologies including advanced composites, energy management, solar electric cells and photo-voltaic arrays to provide energy during the day, all of which is stored in rechargeable cells to maintain flight overnight. Practical applications include using PHASA-35 to deliver communications networks (4G / 5G) or for disaster relief and border protection, as a safer alternative to traditional airborne as well as satellite systems.
- 𝗟𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 - The drone is lightweight and compact, weighing...
- 𝗡𝗼 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗡𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗱 - Under 249 g, FAA Registration and Remote ID are not required if...
- 𝗘𝘅𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗙𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲 - Enjoy longer flights with DJI Mini 2 SE, which offers a 31-min max flight...
PHASA-35 is breaking new ground – opening up the stratosphere to new possibilities. The team, which brings together BAE Systems’ know-how from across the globe with innovative solar and power management technologies, demonstrated tremendous commitment and ambition as they tackled the challenges associated with novel technologies and approaches. This partnership approach is key to our ability to enhance our defence expertise with new thinking and technologies,” said Cliff Robson, Group Managing Director for BAE Systems’ Air Sector.
