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Recent News | 2011 | 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 SkyLite B, powered by the MP2028g Autopilot Breaks World Record in High Altitude and Extended Range November 1, 2008 In a joint effort, RAFAEL Armament Development Authority Ltd and Blue Bird Aero Systems have developed the SkyLite B Mini UAV System equipped with MicroPilot's MP2028g autopilot. With over 500 integrators in 60 countries, MicroPilot is the world leader in miniature autopilots for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and micro aerial vehicles (MAV's). Weighing only 28 grams, the MP2028g has set the benchmark for MicroPilot's family of autopilots and includes the HORIZONmp ground control software. The SkyLite B reached the remarkable flight ceiling of 36,000 ft during recent demonstrations of operational flight capabilities for a tactical reconnaissance team operating in mountainous areas. The demonstration was one of a series of worldwide demonstrations executed in order to prove the extended performance envelope of the UAS in its operational environment. During that demonstration, the SkyLite B proved that it can be launched from high altitudes of 14,500 ft (where the air density is less than 60% of the sea level atmosphere and gusts of wind are strong and dangerous) and can climb and perform its missions at altitudes of up to 36,000 ft. The SkyLite B displayed its extreme versatility and uniqueness by breaking flight endurance records of over 3.5 hours while executing an operational target tracking mission with an operational flight range of 42 km; no small feat for and electric powered mini-UAV. Throughout the demonstrations the MicroPilot autopilot performed flawlessly. The SkyLite B is a man-portable or vehicle mounted, long endurance mini-UAV system designed to provide tactical units with independent ISR capabilities. It is specially equipped with advanced image processing capabilities, including automatic motion detection. - 30 -Lisa Shaw |
