Taiwan solar-powered UAV flight endurance record

Abstract

Solar-powered unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) possess a unique capability to maintain continuous flight for hours, days, weeks, or even months. This research aims to develop a solar-powered UAV that can fly at low altitudes with extended endurance to establish a new record for full-day continuous flight in Taiwan. The UAV was designed with a 4.7 m wingspan and a T-tail configuration to achieve this goal, utilizing materials and components available in the current market. The flight test was conducted on 2 June 2022, resulting in a remarkable 21 h and 50 min of flight endurance, setting a record in Taiwan. While the full-day flight endurance target was not met, the UAV demonstrates the potential to achieve greater endurance with improvements in its construction and operational aspects.