Pathfinder

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and AeroVironment have developed a lightweight flying wing called Pathfinder. The Pathfinder is a solar rechargeable aircraft that uses present-day technologies in photovoltaics, power electronics, aerodynamics, and guidance and control. Advancements in structural designs, solar cells, motor design, and propellers capture the essence of the Pathfinder's engineering. Flight testing of this aircraft shows excellent controllability through precise regulations of lift, velocity, power, and angle of attack. Future work is focused on the viability of night Flights.