Solar breakthrough: British aircraft achieves 24‑hour stratospheric flight
The British team of engineers leading the PHASA-35 unmanned aircraft project, developed by BAE Systems, has made a significant step forward in the development of stratospheric technology. The company has completed an important test of the aircraft.
Recent tests conducted at Spaceport America in New Mexico, USA, demonstrated that the solar-powered aircraft is capable of staying aloft for 24 hours at an altitude of over 20,000 metres. BAE Systems emphasizes that this capability allows for rapid preparation for the next flight after just two days.
The aircraft powered by solar energy
PHASA-35, which has a wingspan of 35 metres, was tested to confirm its flight, landing, and rapid reconfiguration capabilities between missions. Designed by BAE Systems' subsidiary, Prismatic Ltd, the aircraft can operate above regular air traffic and weather phenomena, serving long-term reconnaissance and observation missions.
Bob Davidson, President of Prismatic, highlighted that recent tests confirmed PHASA-35's ability to carry out planned tasks, which is a significant achievement for the team. The aim is to have the system operational by 2026, and one of the recent tests included the use of a software-defined radio as a functioning sensor for reconnaissance missions, which weighed significantly more than previous payloads.
Even better performance in 2025
The team responsible for PHASA-35, based at Prismatic’s UK facility in Alton, plans to deliver an enhanced model of the system by the end of the year. The new model is expected to have more than double the solar efficiency and energy storage capabilities, allowing for even more efficient missions in 2025.
Prismatic is part of FalconWorks, BAE Systems' research and development division in the aviation sector. Dave Holmes from FalconWorks emphasizes that collaboration with various BAE Systems divisions and industry partners contributed to the success of the recent tests, demonstrating the system's reliability for operational use. The team plans to use the test data for further technology optimization.
