Ultra-Lightweight, High-Efficiency Solar Panels for HALE Aircraft
Abstract
This project developed lightweight, efficient, and flexible solar panel sheets for integration onto High Altitude, Long Endurance (HALE) aircraft. The high specific power of these advanced solar cells is 25 percent better than other commercial solar cells, and will enable unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to conduct long endurance missions with increased propulsion and payload power requirements. The ultra-lightweight, high-efficiency solar panels will transition to users within U.S. Central Command and U.S. Pacific Command. This technology area is a congressional interest item and in FY 2017 additional resources were provided above the President’s budget request, exceeding typical limits for RRF funded projects.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2019
- Source ID
- 914b6195a274b1c87564a8ddaa45a0a8