DAILY INNOVATION BRIEF by Maryanne Kane, Journalist
D A ILY INNOVATION BRIEF By Journalists Edward Kane & Marya nne Kane ZEPHYR - HIGHLY ADVANCED SOLAR-POWERED AIRCRAFT Source: Airbus & Aalto European aviation leader Airbus, through its US based, spinoff company Aalto, is developing a breakthrough aircraft that's currently flying very high up in the atmosphere. The lightweight high-flyer offers tremendous potential and unique capabilities. Here are some key facts: Big potential for communications Could serve as aerial networks for our phones, TVs, computers & other devices Japanese mobile phone companies will deploy it over Japan in 2026 to improve service Launched by hand Totally solar powered Very lightweight - weighs about 100 kg Flies at 40 mph Unmanned Potential to stay airborne indefinitely Outperforms satellites as it can land for payload swaps During day, s