GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS FOR SOLAR-ELECTRIC HIGH-ALTITUDE LONG-ENDURANCE AIRCRAFT

Abstract

Solar-electric stratospheric aircraft represent an interesting alternative to low Earth orbit satellites. They can be easily launched and landed, causing no pollution to the atmosphere and leaving no space debris. The design of such aircraft remains a significant challenge even today. Due to advancements in solar cell technology, lithium-ion batteries, and lightweight materials for aircraft structures, it is now possible to deploy such aircraft, which could cover a wide operational range in the future. Fundamentally, the design of such aircraft requires consideration of various physical relationships that indicate operational limits and technological development needs. This publication, based on a model of nvironmental conditions and fundamental flight performance considerations, elucidates these relationships. Useful diagrams derived from this analysis can provide early guidance to aircraft developers in the design process.