Each Zephyr aircraft weighs under 75 kilograms, and operates by charging its solar powered batteries during the day, which enables it to operate 24 hours a day.
Source:http://www.airbus.com/content/dam/corporate-topics/publications/brochures/0612_17_zephyr_datasheet_e_horizontal_a4_lowres.pdf |
It is projected to fly at 65,000 feet, with a flight duration measured in weeks.
It has been designed for a multitude of roles, including precision farming guidance; internet coverage in isolated localities, and military surveillance.
The anticipated date of deployment of the first operational aircraft is given as mid -2018, i.e. about now.
Yet another IFO to watch out for.
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