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Initial Feasibility Assessment of a High Altitude Long Endurance AirshipA high altitude solar powered airship provides the ability to carry large payloads to high altitudes and remain on station for extended periods of time. This study examines the feasibility of this concept. Factors such as time of year, latitude, wind speeds and payload are considered in establishing the capabilities of a given size airship. East and West coast operation were evaluated. The key aspect to success of this type of airship is the design and operation of the propulsion and power system. A preliminary propulsion/power system design was produced based on a regenerative fuel cell energy storage system and solar photovoltaic array for energy production. A modular system design was chosen with four independent power/propulsion units utilized by the airship. Results on payload capacity and flight envelope (latitude and time of year) were produced for a range of airship sizes.
Document ID
20040021326
Acquisition Source
Headquarters
Document Type
Contractor Report (CR)
Authors
Colozza, Anthony
(Analex Corp. Brook Park, OH, United States)
Dolce, James
(NASA Glenn Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Date Acquired
September 7, 2013
Publication Date
December 1, 2003
Subject Category
Aircraft Design, Testing And Performance
Report/Patent Number
E-14248
NASA/CR-2003-212724
Report Number: E-14248
Report Number: NASA/CR-2003-212724
Funding Number(s)
WBS: WBS 719-30-02
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAS3-00145
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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