Lockheed Martin - High Altitude Long Endurance-Demonstrator (HALE-D) [720p]

High Altitude Airship demonstrates successful launch during abbreviated flight on 27 Jul 2011.

Demonstration proves a number of key technologies and systems.

MS2's High Altitude Long Endurance-Demonstrator (HALE-D) airship was successfully launched from the historic Akron Airdock in Ohio.

The helium-filled airship took off at 5:47 a.m. It ascended to approximately 32,000 feet; however, an anomaly with the helium levels prevented the airship from attaining its target altitude of 60,000 feet. A decision was made to terminate the flight, and the airship landed at a predetermined location without incident shortly before 8:30 a.m. in southwestern Pennsylvania.

"While we didn't reach the target altitude, first flights of new technologies like HALE-D also afford us the ability to learn and test with a mind toward future developments," said Dan Schultz, vice president, ship and aviation systems for Lockheed Martin's Mission Systems & Sensors business. "We demonstrated a variety of advanced technologies, including launch and control of the airship, communications links, unique propulsion system, solar array electricity generation, remote piloting communications and control capability, in-flight operations, and controlled vehicle recovery to a remote un-populated area."

The HALE-D is an unmanned lighter-than-air vehicle designed to demonstrate advanced new technologies and capabilities for keeping American soldiers safer through improved communications. The airship is completely powered by advanced solar cell technology and rechargeable lithium ion batteries.

No injuries or damage were experienced during this landing. MS2 is in the process of recovering the airship and will conduct a full evaluation.

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• Military

[jayejayeee]

brilliant video

[msjessypp]

Very enjoyable thank you

[DanFrederiksen]

works really well. as long as there is no wind

[28crucis]

the launch at 0:10 was COOL

[RojOdio]

@Time4TruthDOTorg I think he meant in the sense that it's not shooting something out the back to fly (exhaust from jet engines) and just floats.

[Time4TruthDOTorg]

@amp3cx10000a7jp How so? UFO = Unidentified Flying Object... we know exactly what this craft is.

[amp3cx10000a7jp]

just　like　a　UFO.