Albatross-Inspired Electric Drone Aims to Cross the South Atlantic
Key Ideas
- French engineers are developing an electric-powered drone, inspired by albatross flight techniques, to cross the South Atlantic nonstop, using hydrogen fuel cells for increased endurance and efficiency.
- Hydrogen fuel cells provide five times more power per flight hour than lithium batteries, offering greater reliability and lower maintenance requirements for unmanned aircraft systems.
- The drone prototype features a liquid hydrogen reservoir to maximize energy storage, enabling longer distances, and a design that mimics albatrosses' energy-efficient flying strategy.
- Through satellite communication, the drone can adapt its route based on weather conditions, aiming for a final weight of less than 25 kilograms for the aircraft.
At FAPESP Week Toulouse, French engineers presented the 'Mermoz Drone,' an innovative project aiming to recreate Jean Mermoz's historic South Atlantic flight using an electric-powered drone inspired by albatrosses unique flying capabilities. The team from ISAE-SUPAERO in Toulouse plans to fly this unmanned aircraft from Dakar, Senegal, to Natal, Brazil, a journey that spans approximately 3,200 kilometers. To overcome the limitations of lithium batteries, the researchers are turning to hydrogen fuel cells, which offer significantly higher power per flight hour, reliability, and lower maintenance requirements. The prototype drone utilizes liquid hydrogen for increased energy storage, allowing for extended travel distances. The design of the drone mirrors the flight strategies of albatrosses, enabling efficient flying with minimal energy expenditure. Through satellite communication, the drone can adjust its route based on weather patterns. The ultimate goal is to create a lightweight aircraft weighing less than 25 kilograms. This project showcases the potential of hydrogen fuel cells in aviation for long-endurance unmanned flights, highlighting advancements in energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.