New Unmanned Aircraft Tested in Desert

The Global Observer unmanned aircraft stayed aloft for four hours above the Mojave Desert in the first flight powered by a hydrogen-fueled propulsion system. The aircraft can provide continuous communications and remote imaging over any location similar to what satellites provide but at a lower cost. The Global Observer was designed and built in Simi Valley by Aerovironment Inc. and tested at Edwards Air Force Base. The aircraft is a joint project between Aerovironment and the U.S. government, which has put in more than $140 million in funding for the program. “The speed with which we have achieved this milestone reflects the benefits of an effective government-industry partnership,” said Aerovironment Chairman and CEO Tim Conver. During the flight, the unmanned aircraft reached an altitude of 5,000 feet above sea level. The Global Observer is capable of reaching altitudes of 55,000 to 65,000 feet, enabling sensor payloads on the aircraft to view a significantly larger area on the surface of the earth than conventional, lower flying aircraft. Mark R. Madler