| 摘要 |
A method of launching a powered UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) 10,50 at a high altitude comprises lifting the vehicle by attachment to a light-than-air carrier 12 from a substantially ground-level location to an elevated altitude. When at the desired altitude the vehicle is caused to detach from the carrier while the velocity of the vehicle relative to the carrier is substantially zero. The vehicle thereafter decreases in altitude as it accelerates to a velocity where it is capable of preventing any further descent and can begin independent sustained flight. The vehicle 50 has wings 53 that have solar energy collectors mounted within them and the aircraft is angle so that the solar panels are pointing towards the sun. The compass heading of the vehicle is maintained by use of rudder 52 and winglets 54. |
