EG-0071-01
The Pathfinder was a lightweight, solar-powered, remotely piloted flying wing aircraft that demonstrated the technology of applying solar power for long-duration, high-altitude flight. It was the pathfinder for a future fleet of solar-powered aircraft that could stay airborne for weeks or months on scientific sampling and imaging missions.
Solar arrays covering most of the upper wing surface provided power for the aircraft’s electric motors, avionics, communications, and other electronic systems. Pathfinder also had a backup battery system that could provide power for between 2 and 5 hours to allow limited-duration flight after dark.
Pathfinder flew at an airspeed of only 15 to 25 mph. Although pitch control was maintained by the use of tiny elevons on the trailing edge of the wing, turns and yaw control were accomplished by slowing down or speeding up the motors on the outboard sections of the wing…Learn more