LR2 Blogs

Defense Tech: Solar Drone New Endurance Champ

How long until this sort of thing is possible for the amature?

[SoLong is] a powered sailplane of Cocconi’s own design with solar cells built into the wing. It weighs 28.2 lb., has a 15.6-ft. span, and takes off with its own 1-hp. motor from a wheeled dolly. The control system includes a sophisticated autopilot with inertial, barometric and GPS references; a television camera gives an over-the-nose pilot’s-eye view.