The Xsol-E1.1 project explores the use of solar energy as a supplemental power source to extend UAD (unmanned aerial device) flight time. The project demonstrates how solar can be coupled with traditional lithium power cells. More detail here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aCM1DTj8wXI
In this experiment, flight time is extended up to 250%. The configuration shown here uses a 3C 2200mah Litho power cell. Without solar assist, flight time averages 12 minutes. With solar assist, flight time is extended to an excess of 35 minutes at full solar intensity.
The is phase 1 of a 3 phased project.
Our ultimate goal is to build a fully functional low light operating UAV (drone) capable of not only sustained flight missions, but also the ability to fly in a low density atmosphere like the one found on Mars. We current the funding to completed Phase 1. However, Phases 2 (fully tested prototype version) and Phase 3 (production ready version) will require an estimated $300k additional funding for completion of the remaining phases by 2019. We would like this ‘drone’ to be ready for the first private exploration missions to Mars which are expected to occur by late 2019, early 2020.
The race to claim Mars is on! We anticipate the main purpose of the drone will be to collect detailed mineral and land formation data that can be used to determine potential resource deposits that are likely present on or beneath the planet’s surface for future private use.
Post time: Jan-28-2017