Hy-BirdĪ project is currently in the works to make an airplane that runs off of completely renewable energy. Theoretically, once all additions are made to this solar powered UAV, it will be able to stay in the air for weeks or months at a time. The government plans to manufacture clones of the Centurion to perform various tasks like monitoring, scientific sampling, and telecommunications. It too was primarily designed to be able to conduct surveillance over long periods of time at an immense distance from the ground. Its wingspan measures ninety-eight feet, almost twice the size of the Pathfinder and the body is significantly longer, coming in at over two hundred and five feet. With similarities to the Pathfinder, the Centurion could be considered the more advanced older brother of the first drone.

This unusual aircraft was used on five reported flights between 1993-1994 to perform monitoring assignments at a lower altitude. They reduced the motor count from eight to six and battery power was united with solar energy. In 1993 the Ballistic Missile Defence Organization uncovered the aircraft and began making modifications. Developed for the purpose of capturing lengthy surveillance from high altitudes, the project was terminated, and the Pathfinder would then be kept in storage for over a decade. When the Pathfinder was first assembled, its very existence was a top secret military endeavor. Here is a list 10 incredible approach for solar powered airplanes: 1. Using the power of the sun is a great way for manufacturers to be kinder to the environment and save the plane owner money over time. Researchers are developing and have developed some groundbreaking solar-powered aircraft that could change the future of flight. Solar power has made its way into the field of aviation technology.

Helios solar flying aircraft