The first stage of flight tests has been completed for the prototype High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS) ApusDuo solar-powered unmanned aircraft developed by UAVOS.

The trials confirmed the utility of an autopilot solution that controls the flexible wing by analyzing the extended aspect ratio of its deformation and adjusting the lift. The dual parallel 10 m wings, linked by three struts, are covered in solar panels. The carbon fiber airframe is designed for long-term continuous operation — as long as one year.

The ApusDuo carrier is designed for:

• Video surveillance and monitoring

• Drone communications system

• Broadband coverage

• Frequency jamming

• Radio link range extension and retransmission

• Target designation

• R&D flying laboratory (meteorology, hydrology, earth monitoring)

The final version of the solar aircraft will feature a wingspan of 28 m.

Source: UAVOS