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3D photophoretic aircraft made from ultralight porous materials can carry kg-scale payloads in the mesosphere

Engineering and Technology

3D photophoretic aircraft made from ultralight porous materials can carry kg-scale payloads in the mesosphere

T. Celenza, A. Eskenazi, et al.

This groundbreaking research by Thomas Celenza, Andy Eskenazi, and Igor Bargatin unveils the design of 3D photophoretic aircraft that can soar high in Earth's mesosphere and Mars's atmosphere. With the ability to transport kilogram-scale payloads using ultralight materials, this study not only presents a theoretical lift model but also demonstrates the feasibility of achieving significant payloads at extreme altitudes.

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Playback language: English
Abstract
This paper explores the design and capabilities of 3D photophoretic aircraft for high-altitude flight in Earth's mesosphere and the Martian atmosphere. By utilizing ultralight porous materials and a 3D hollow geometry, these aircraft can generate lift through photophoresis and Knudsen pumping, enabling the transport of kilogram-scale payloads. The study develops a theoretical model for lift force, validated through simulations, and optimizes geometric parameters to maximize payload or minimize operating altitude. Results demonstrate the feasibility of kg-scale payloads at mesospheric altitudes.
Publisher
Nature Communications
Published On
Jan 01, 2023
Authors
Thomas Celenza, Andy Eskenazi, Igor Bargatin
Tags
3D photophoretic aircraft
high-altitude flight
mesosphere
Martian atmosphere
ultralight materials
lift force
payload transport

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