Aerospace

Guess why Airbus put three Camera on this A350 test aircraft?

Airbus put three on this A350 test aircraft?

Every other day, Airbus introduces a new invention that puts them in front of the curve and makes flying easier, which is crucial for us.

Airbus created a new camera with natural inspiration that enables pilots to see objects in challenging conditions. And provides the Pilots with clear notifications. There will be a lot of activities at the airport at some point, and aircraft movement will also be recorded. This technology aids the pilot in resolving the problem.

Airbus UpNext, a wholly owned subsidiary of Airbus, has started testing new, on-ground and in-flight, pilot assistance technologies on an A350-1000 test aircraft.

Known as DragonFly, the technologies being demonstrated include automated emergency diversion in cruise, automatic landing, and taxi assistance and are aimed at evaluating the feasibility and pertinence of further exploring autonomous flight systems in support of safer and more efficient operations.

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The usage of the three cameras on the A350 aircraft has been requested by Airbus. Later, a demonstration of how this technology is used for pilots was shown.

Guess why we put three ? on this #A350 test aircraft? pic.twitter.com/88CoXeQUJj
— Airbus (@Airbus) January 11, 2023

These 3 cameras allow our #A350 test aircraft to “see” and safely maneuver within its surroundings by reviewing and identifying features in the landscape

During the flight test campaign, the technologies were able to assist pilots in-flight, managing a simulated incapacitated crew member event, and during landing and taxiing operations. Taking into account external factors such as flight zones, terrain and weather conditions, the aircraft was able to generate a new flight trajectory plan and communicate with both Air Traffic Control (ATC) and the airline Operations Control Centre.

Airbus UpNext has also explored features for taxi assistance, which were tested in real-time conditions at Toulouse-Blagnac Airport. The technology provides the crew with audio alerts in reaction to obstacles, assisted speed control, and guidance to the runway using a dedicated airport map.

In addition to these capabilities, Airbus UpNext is launching a project to prepare the next generation of computer vision-based algorithms to advance landing and taxi assistance.

These tests were made possible through cooperation with Airbus subsidiaries and external partners including Cobham, Collins Aerospace, Honeywell, Onera and Thales. DragonFly was partially funded by the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) as part of the French Stimulus plan, which is part of the European Plan, Next Generation EU, and the France 2030 plan.

These 3 cameras allow our #A350 test aircraft to “see” ? and safely manoeuvre within its surroundings by reviewing and identifying features in the landscape… just like a dragonfly! Learn more: https://t.co/5wCsTDB8kq pic.twitter.com/MiEaCIgjbS
— Airbus (@Airbus) January 12, 2023

The Airbus UpNext DragonFly prototype is inspired by the dragonfly’s remarkable vision and cunning flight abilities. The last three months of testing for DragonFly will put its automatic landing technology, pilot support technology, and flightpath capability to the test.

Aerospace

Boeing Transfers Rocket Stage to NASA, Paving Way for Human Moon Mission

Image:Boeing

Boeing has achieved a significant milestone by providing NASA with the second core stage of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket.

This crucial component, crafted at NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility (MAF), is set to propel the Artemis II crew into lunar orbit, marking humanity’s return to deep space after a 50-year hiatus.

The monumental Boeing-built rocket stage, the largest element of the Artemis II mission, will embark on a journey aboard the Pegasus barge, traveling 900 miles to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.

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Upon arrival, it will be meticulously integrated with other essential Artemis II components, including the upper stage, solid rocket boosters, and NASA’s Orion spacecraft within the iconic Vehicle Assembly Building. This intricate integration process is a vital step toward the eagerly anticipated Artemis II launch, slated for 2025.

“Boeing-built products helped land humankind on the moon in 1969, and we’re proud to continue that legacy through the Artemis generation,” remarked Dave Dutcher, vice president and program manager for Boeing’s SLS program. “Together, with NASA and our industry partners and suppliers, we are building the world’s most capable rocket and paving the way to deep space through America’s rocket factory in New Orleans.”

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The delivery of Core Stage 2 marks a significant achievement in the evolution of the SLS rocket. Towering over 200 feet and powered by four RS-25 engines, this core stage, coupled with two solid-fueled booster rockets, will generate a staggering 8.8 million pounds of thrust. This immense power is crucial to launching Artemis II and future missions into the vast expanse of space.

The SLS rocket stands unparalleled in its capability to transport both crew and substantial cargo to the moon and beyond in a single launch. Its extraordinary capacity will facilitate the delivery of human-rated spacecraft, habitats, and scientific missions to destinations including the moon and Mars, ushering in a new era of space exploration.