Facebook for the first time experienced a drone Solar for distribution of free internet Bashny.Net

The first flight of a fully functional version of the drone Aquila took place in late June (previously tested a simplified version), however, Facebook announced it only now. According wingspan drone comparable to a Boeing 737, at the same time for the flight it is enough to 5000 watts. Launching and landing was successful, but the company noted that on some moments still need to work.




After two years of development and test runs a smaller version of Aquila drone made its first flight. Recall that the UAV uses for solar energy and is designed to provide Internet access remote regions of the world.

According to Facebook, a full-scale test version took place on June 28th. Dron got up to a height of 600 m and reached a speed of 40 km / h. Aquila spent in the air 96 minutes - three times longer than expected. During the flight, ground crew was convinced of serviceability of the autopilot, aerodynamics, batteries, as well as check other characteristics.



Aquila wingspan comparable to commercial aircraft, with the drone weighs three times less than a car - this has been achieved through the use of a composite material based on carbon fiber. For flight drone must be 5000 watts, t. E. As much energy as you need to work three dryers.



Launching and landing of the drone were successful, but shortly before landing at Aquila there was a breakdown structure. In Facebook also noted that before starting to use the Internet to distribute Aquila, it is necessary to solve two problems. You must ensure that the UAV will be able to obtain enough solar energy to charge the battery and to maintain engine operation at night. Also, the drone should be a cost-effective alternative to existing distribution systems of the Internet.



Facebook plans via Aquila to provide access to the Internet 1, 6 billion people worldwide. A drone can cover the territory of 100 km, while in the air for 90 days. In the future, the company plans to achieve higher rates: display the drone to a height of 18-27 km, and set the speed of 112-128 km / h. It will take at least two years, reported to Facebook.