Researchers Unveil Ultralight Solar-Powered Drone with Extended Flight Capability

The CoulombFly drone, weighing just 4.21 grams, uses an electrostatic motor and solar cells to achieve sustained flight in natural sunlight.

Developed by Beihang University, the drone can hover for over an hour using sunlight alone.
The electrostatic propulsion system is highly efficient, requiring only 0.568 watts to stay aloft.
Current limitations include lack of flight control and susceptibility to changes in sunlight.
Potential applications include environmental monitoring and search and rescue.
Future improvements aim to add night operation capabilities and enhance durability.