Russia has developed a solar-powered airship for search operations

Scientists and students of the Moscow Aviation Institute (MAI) have developed a solar-powered airship that can be used for search operations in the Arctic and other hard-to-reach regions of Russia. The National Technology Initiative (NTI) Platform press office told TASS on Saturday.

The "Ecodisolar" airmobile is equipped with solar panels and resembles an airship. It uses lifting (floating) force, which, unlike conventional drones, saves energy for vertical movements.

"The body of the apparatus is made of durable gas-tight thin elastic materials in the form of two hemispheres enclosed in a composite hoop, which is filled with helium and non-flammable hydrogen. The development is also unique in its hybrid electric propulsion system, which the MAI specialists are developing together with the Baranov Central Institute of Aviation Motors." said the NTI Platform press office.

Unlike conventional airships, the MAI development has a hydroscopic stabilisation system, allowing it to fly at speeds of up to 130 km/h. Such a vehicle can be used not only for rescue work, but also for delivering supplies and medicines in regions with difficult terrain, the authors believe.

The team of authors presented the development at the project-educational intensive "Archipelago 2022", which took place in July in three Russian cities. Scientists received expert support and access to potential investors.

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