Qimingxing-50

Why in news?

• China’s first fully solar-powered unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) named “Qimingxing-50” has successfully completed its maiden test flight with all onboard systems functioning optimally.

What is Qimingxing-50?

• QIMINGXING 50 or Morning Star-50 is China’s fully solar-powered, semi-satellite drone.

Purpose:

• It is capable of conducting high-altitude reconnaissance, apart from monitoring forest fires, and providing communication and environment relay.

Features:

• This drone is powered entirely by solar panels. It can stay airborne for long durations.
• It flies above 20-km altitude where there is stable airflow with no clouds.
• This helps these drones to make maximum use of solar equipment to stay functional for extended durations.

Add ons:

• The United States and the United Kingdom have already developed solar-powered drones that can fly 20 km up in the sky.

PRACTICE QUESTION

‘Qimingxing-50’, widely discussed in news, is a:

(a) Japan’s diesel-electric attack submarines

(b) Geostationary communications and meteorology satellite operated by ASEAN

(c)  South Korea's military aircraft

(d) China’s fully solar-powered, semi-satellite drone.

Answer