Program
9, Episode 204
Behind
the Scenes
 NASA’s new Helios aircraft
is a remotely piloted flying
wing which is designed to operate
at high altitudes for several
months at a time. Developed
with ultra light composite materials
and with a wingspan of 247 feet,
the Helios exceeds the overall
length of a Boeing 747. Often
referred to as an “atmospheric
satellite", Helios’
mission is to conduct a wide
variety of Earth and atmospheric
science missions while flying
on the edge of the atmosphere.
Helios could also monitor weather,
track hurricanes, and provide
coverage of disaster sites such
as fires, flooding and earthquakes
in order to precisely direct
emergency resources.
The Helios could also provide
telecommunications and other
services at a fraction of the
cost of satellite, while providing
a reliable means of collecting
vital information.
Greg Provance spoke with John
Del Frate about the future
of Helios and its unique design.
Additional
Information
http://www.dfrc.nasa.gov/Research/Erast/helios.html |
