Scientists have developed a revolutionary laser-based charging system that could allow drones to stay in the air indefinitely. The system delivers power from a ground-based transmitter directly to a drone through a focused laser beam.
PowerLight Technologies created the system with advanced software that links a ground transmitter to a receiver installed on a drone. The receiver converts the laser beam into battery power, enabling continuous operation without the need to land.
The laser can deliver thousands of watts of energy, and the transmitters can work at distances up to 1,500 meters. This allows drones to remain airborne for extended periods, potentially achieving “infinite flight.”
The software tracks the drone in real time, locking onto cooperative targets and directing the laser beam accurately even while the drone is moving. This ensures efficient energy transfer during flight.
Operators can monitor the battery levels through an integrated ground control system. The system allows them to adjust power delivery and maintain optimal performance for each drone in operation.
Experts say the technology could have significant applications for military drones. By providing continuous energy in the field, drones could engage multiple targets without needing to return for recharging. This capability could change how unmanned aerial vehicles are deployed in strategic operations.
Tom Nugent, CTO and Co-Founder of PowerLight, explained, “We are building an intelligent mesh energy network. Our transmitter communicates with the UAS, tracks its volatility, and delivers energy exactly where it’s needed.”
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This breakthrough laser-charging technology represents a major advancement for drones, offering longer flight times, improved efficiency, and new possibilities for both civilian and defense applications. As the technology develops, it could reshape the future of unmanned aerial systems and aerial operations.
