Eco Factor: UAV to offer 24-hour services while consuming solar energy.
Researchers at the Queensland University of Technology are creating a solar-powered unmanned flight system for round-the-clock surveillance. Dubbed the Green Falcon, the solar UAV aims to save lives and millions of dollars, using the latest in green technology.
The Green Falcon is equipped with a next generation warning system with remote sensing and visual data capabilities that allows it to detect bush fires in Australia that have killed many people and caused millions of dollars in damage.
The UAV runs on solar energy during the day and uses it to recharge an onboard battery pack that powers the aircraft after dark. It is also equipped with infrared cameras that allow it to locate distressed people and relay the information to emergency services on the ground.
With a wingspan of 2.5m the Green Falcon is hand-launched for easy operation and is commanded from a ground station, where the operator can receive and respond to images and videos send by the plane. In addition to detecting bush fires and saving lives, this green UAV can also be used for coastal surveillance, atmospheric and weather research and prediction, environmental, forestry, agricultural, and oceanic monitoring and imaging for the media and real-estate industries.
Via: Flightglobal
