Create a free starter account, or log in.

Get access to four free articles per month, as well as our Decisive Edge Newsletters and Daily News Bulletin.

Email Address

Password

Forgot your password? Reset by clicking here

Create a Password

[[ req.met ? '✓' : '•' ]] [[ req.text ]]

Re-enter Password

Passwords do not match

First Name

Last Name

Country

Confirm your account

Please enter the four-digit pin below that has been emailed to you.

Didn't receive the pin yet?

This pin expires in 20 minutes.

[[ error ]]

By creating an account, you agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Stay informed with Shephard's award-winning journalism. Unlock unlimited access and in-depth analysis with a corporate or individual subscription.

Explore your options here

AUVSI 2013: Puma AE completes maiden solar flight

16th August 2013 - 15:28 GMT | by Beth Stevenson in Washington, DC

RSS

AeroVironment’s Puma AE has completed a nine hour flight using solar power, tripling the UAV’s existing endurance, company officials have stated.

Solar panels, manufactured by Alta Devices, were attached to wings and tested during a flight campaign, with the longest flight lasting nine hours and eleven minutes. Without the solar panels, the Puma can usually fly for two hours or three with an extended power pack.

‘We have successfully completed a solar powered flight,’ David Heidel, marketing manager for UAS at the company told Shephard. ‘Our plan for the Puma would be to have the solar wing in production

Already have an account? Log in