AeroVironment Global Observer long endurance UAS completes wing load tests

http://www.gizmag.com/aerovironment-global-observer-long-endurance-uav-wing-load-tests/16022/

AeroVironment has passed a critical milestone in the development of its Global Observer unmanned aircraft system (UAS). The company reports that the High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) aircraft has completed a series of Wing Load Tests at NASA's Dryden Flight Research Center – proving that the aircraft's all-composite 175-foot wing can withstand the level of dynamic stress it will be subjected to at altitudes of between 55,000 and 65,000 feet.

During the test, the full-scale wing successfully passed load testing for positive (pulling up) and negative (pushing down) directions. The data will be used for validation of the design as well as flight test comparisons.

“These successful tests confirm that the Global Observer wing, one of the most critical elements of the system, is prepared to handle the stress of high altitude, long endurance flight,” said Tim Conver, AV’s chairman and chief executive officer. “With ground and wing load testing behind us we look forward to demonstrating Global Observer’s unique ability to fly longer and higher over any location than any other aircraft.”