Flight performance issues of solar aircraft

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

The flight performance of solar aircraft is examined, with the objective to show that this type of aerial vehicle has unique characteristics. These characteristics relate to important performance quantities, such as the ceiling and the top speed or the maximum climb rate. Considerable differences exist in the achievable flight performance of solar aircraft and vehicles employing an air-breathing propulsion system. There are also specific aspects concerning the maximum range flight. Further to the unique characteristics of solar aircraft, it is shown that this vehicle type offers the possibility of an unlimited endurance performance.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the 11th Mini Conference on Vehicle System Dynamics Identification and Anomalies, VSDIA 2008
Pages527-539
Number of pages13
StatePublished - 2008
Event11th Mini Conference on Vehicle System Dynamics Identification and Anomalies, VSDIA 2008 - Budapest, Hungary
Duration: 10 Nov 200812 Nov 2008

Publication series

NameProceedings of the Mini Conference on Vehicle System Dynamics, Identification and Anomalies

Conference

Conference11th Mini Conference on Vehicle System Dynamics Identification and Anomalies, VSDIA 2008
Country/TerritoryHungary
CityBudapest
Period10/11/0812/11/08

Keywords

  • Air-breathing propulsion system
  • Electrical engine
  • Performance
  • Solar-powered airplane

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