Milestones
The Global Observer® system is designed to provide capabilities not currently available, capabilities that can help save lives and property. The technologies behind Global Observer have been developed over decades of innovation at AV, tracing back to the first human powered airplane and through a series of revolutionary extreme altitude, solar-powered UAS. Today Global Observer is poised to open the stratosphere for practical use in the same way that airplanes and satellites opened the skies and space during last century.
1977
Gossamer CondorFirst human-powered airplane. Maximum efficiency in aeronautical and propulsion system design. Learn more
1981
Solar ChallengerFirst solar-powered piloted airplane to cross the English Channel (5+ hour flight). High efficiency energy generation and storage. (Smithsonian)
1993
PathfinderGroundbreaking solar-powered, high altitude UAS. Reached 50,000 feet in 1995.Learn more
2001
HeliosSolar-powered, high altitude UAS sets world altitude record for non-rocket powered aircraft - 96,863 feet.Learn more
2002
Pathfinder-PlusFirst successful relay of high-quality television signals, third-generation cell phone transmissions and Internet linkage from the stratosphere. (Smithsonian)
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2005
Global Observer “Odyssey” prototypeFirst liquid hydrogen fueled UAS. 1/3 scale, powered by fuel cell system.
2007
Joint Capability Technology ProgramAV awarded Global Observer Joint Capability Technology Demonstration program, opens development and production facility.
2009
Propulsion SystemGlobal Observer propulsion system achieves multi-day operation in atmospheric chamber to simulate flight conditions.
2010
Ground and Taxi TestingGlobal Observer aircraft successfully completes ground and taxi testing in preparation for first flight.
2011
Historic Hydrogen-Powered FlightGlobal Observer successfully completed its historic first hydrogen-powered flight at Edwards Air Force Base (EAFB) in California. Learn more
