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Record-Breaking Solar Drone Ditches After 8 Days Aloft
18 May
Summary
- A solar-powered UAV completed an 8-day flight exceeding 192 hours.
- The drone supported US Navy exercises before encountering severe weather.
- Energy reserves depleted by extreme conditions led to a controlled ditching.
The prototype Skydweller unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) has concluded a record-breaking flight of over 192 hours, lasting more than eight days. The solar-powered aircraft took off from Mississippi on April 26, 2026, and subsequently supported US Navy reconnaissance missions during the FLEX 2026 exercise over the Gulf of Mexico.
Following the exercise, severe weather conditions over the Gulf extended the drone's flight. The aircraft encountered heavy turbulence and extreme drafts during its return transit, significantly impacting its systems.
On May 4, 2026, after its energy reserves were depleted by sustained adverse weather, the Skydweller executed a controlled ditching in the water. The manufacturer confirmed all systems, except battery levels, were functioning nominally during the event. The Skydweller is designed for long-duration flights, functioning as a Medium-Altitude Pseudo-Satellite.
