Optimizing the use of atmospheric energy to extend range and endurance of low altitude UAVs and small manned aircraft

During Phase I, we documented the feasibility of the AEORA hardware/software system that combines the real-time acquisition of atmospheric data by a small light-weight airborne DWL and potential sensors TBD with a SOTA numerical weather model on-board a small manned aircraft or UAV. The purpose of such a software package is to reduce mission (either military or civilian) dependence upon preflight assumptions, extend flight duration and endurance, and allow for the optimum routing of the aircraft through evolving beneficial conditions and, just as importantly, avoiding detrimental ones. In Phase II, we will continue the design, development, simulation and testing of such a system. The main focus in the Phase II effort will be in the development of robust algorithms for DWL data processing, energy feature detection and ranking, cost function analysis, flight to target guidance, energy utilization and total system management. The AEORA software/hardware system will be tested through numerous simulations and, if possible, on either a small manned aircraft or, perhaps, a UAV such as the Shadow 200.