Polar science could reach new heights as researchers prepare to test the new Windracers ULTRA autonomous drone in Antarctica this season.
A new, state-of-the-art autonomous drone capable of carrying a wide range of science sensors is heading south for its inaugural flight on the icy continent this Antarctic field season from January to March 2024. This forms part of BAS’s plans to automate its science platforms and reach net zero carbon emissions by 2040.
Designed for extreme environments like Antarctica, the Windracers ULTRA UAV (uncrewed aerial vehicle) is a fully autonomous, twin-engine, 10-metre fixed-winged aircraft, capable of carrying 100 kg of cargo or sensors up to 1000 km. It can take off, fly and land safely with minimal ground operator oversight thanks to its sophisticated autopilot system Masterless™, developed and patented by Distributed Avionics.
Read more at: British Antarctic Survey
UAV drones will allow us to gather new and a broader range of science data in an effective, lower-carbon and lower cost manner than traditional crewed aviation. (Photo Credit: Windracers)