RT LTA introduces Skystar 100 aerostat
RT LTA Systems has introduced its new Skystar 100 mini aerostat system, a part of its Skystar aerostats line, the company announced on 19 February.
The Skystar 100 mini aerostat system can be used for close surveillance and reconnaissance missions. It is a mini balloon system designed to give field commanders real-time, over-the-hill reconnaissance capability.
The system is compact and can be transported, assembled, launched and operated by two personnel after completing minimal training. It has an electro-optical payload operational day and night, is transportable by backpack or pickup truck and can be assembled and launched in 15 minutes.
A Skystar 100 handheld Personal Ground Control Station (PGCS) can be mounted on a tripod or worn over a protective vest. The PGCS connects the user with real-time control hardware on the Skystar 100, and includes an integral digital video recorder for recording mission data and video. It also displays map and video telemetry simultaneously.
The system can be used as a relay for ground sensors, mini unmanned aerial vehicles and other systems. It has a diameter of 12ft, operating altitude of up to 1,000ft, wind limit of 40 knots, payload weight of up 7lbs and endurance of up to 6 hours.
Rami Shmueli, CEO, RT LTA, said: 'The new system had two main applications; surveillance using day/night gyro stabilised camera and communication using communication relay systems. The Skystar 100 is ideal for military, homeland security, law enforcement operations and SAR missions, and I'm sure it will be operational in several locations during 2015.'
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