A small solar drone flew for an hour straight

The developed drone uses an electrostatic motor that weighs only 1.52 grams, a breakthrough that facilitates prolonged solar-powered flight.

Isbel Lázaro.

Published: July 19, 2024

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Scientists at Beihang University and the Center for Advanced Aero Engines, located in China, have unveiled a microscopic solar drone capable of flying thanks to the direct energy emitted by the sun. This discovery represents a significant advance in drone technology, offering new possibilities for their use, especially in high-altitude surveillance.

Unlike the satellites orbiting at high altitudes, these new solar drones could operate at much lower levels, with the advantage of not requiring frequent landings to recharge power. This development could allow drones to perform continuous missions, similar to those of satellites, but from closer proximity to Earth.

A solar drone with innovative design and dimensions

The main challenge faced by the smaller drones was limited flight time due to their reliance on electromagnetic motors, which are less efficient at smaller sizes. To address this, the team innovated a lightweight electrostatic motor that uses electrostatic fields to move a rotor, weighing only 1.52 grams. This design improves efficiency and significantly extends flight durability.

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The drone structure is composed of a set of electrode plates that interact with rotor blades to generate motion. Underneath this configuration, two solar cells are placed solar cells which, upon receiving sunlight, activate the motor, causing the upper rotor to propel the drone upwards. In tests, this drone has proven to be capable of flying for a continuous period of at least one hour.

Promising future

The research team, which was published in the journal Natureplans to continue development of the drone, with the goal of improving its endurance and payload capacity. This type of technology could not only change the way surveillance operations are conducted, but also open up new avenues for low-cost, energy-efficient aerial exploration.