National RQ-539

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The National RQ-539 is a reconnaissance drone developed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for use in its Earth science and atmospheric research missions. The drone, also known as the Helios Prototype, is designed to fly at high altitudes using solar power alone, eliminating the need for fuel and reducing operational costs.The National RQ-539 drone has a wingspan of 24 meters (79 feet) and a length of 12 meters (39 feet). It is made of lightweight materials and is equipped with cutting-edge avionics and communication systems. The drone is piloted remotely from the ground, and it can fly for up to a week at altitudes of up to 30,000 meters (98,000 feet) above sea level.The National RQ-539 has been used in a variety of NASA missions, including the Global Ozone Monitoring Experiment-2 (GOME-2), which collects data on air quality and atmospheric ozone, and the Cloud-Aerosol Transport System (CATS), which monitors particle transport and aerosol scattering.While the National RQ-539 drone has proven to be a valuable tool for NASA's research efforts, its development was marked by several challenges. The drone's dependence on solar power proved to be a significant liability, as it requiredextended periods of clear weather to function properly. Additionally, the risk of mechanical failures and other hazards presented significant safety concerns during its test flights.In 2013, NASA announced that it would be retiring the National RQ-539 drone due to its decreased scientific value and the availability of more advanced unmanned aerial systems. While the Helios Prototype will no longer be in use, its pioneering technology has paved the way for future advances in solar-powered drone technology and NASA's ongoing efforts to advance scientific research through remote sensing.

Type:
Formats: Tape, Tuner
Power Output: 2W
Frequency Response: 80Hz to 10kHz
Distortion:
Dimensions: 349 x 208 x 116 mm
Weight: 2.8 kg
Year: 1978
Price: