A family team, previously known for building the world’s fastest the world’s fastest quadcopter, has once againhas once again surprised with a bold technical challenge by developing a multirotor drone that can stay in flight as long as there is sunlight, without the need for batteries or energy storage systems.
Lightweight design and extreme efficiency of the battery-less solar drone
The drone’s structure is based on an X-shaped chassis made of 3 mm carbon fiber tubes, which guarantees rigidity with minimum weight. It is equipped with Antigravity motors, 18-inch T-Motor propellers and 3D printed components to support both the flight controller and small POV cameras, intended for immersive flight.
The key innovation is in the energy source. An array of 27 ultralight ultralight solar panels was mounted directly on the drone’s structure, connected in series to generate up to 150 watts under ideal conditions. These modules were assembled in a handcrafted manner on a carbon base, designed to maximize solar exposure during flight.
Actual tests, applications and remaining challenges
The team of Luke Bell conducted field tests with direct sunlight light, where the drone managed to take off, remain stable and operate without batteries or capacitors. The success of this demonstration marks a milestone in multi-rotor solar flight, a category that until now relied on battery hybrid systems.
Although this prototype is not intended for immediate commercial use, it raises possibilities for observation missions, light surveillance or flights in sunny environments where extended autonomy is more valuable than power. Current challenges include the fragility of the panels and the need for optimal weather conditions.
Source and photo: Luke Bell via New Atlas
