Solar Drones

Solar drones are becoming hot new targets for technology biggies such as Google and Facebook. Drone technology has seen some dramatic improvements in the last few years. The US Military has extensively used drones in operations in Afghanistan and Pakistan. The improvement in sensor and communication technologies has meant that it has become extremely easy to replace pilots in small planes. These craft are controlled remotely, while performing extremely dangerous operations in hostile areas. They are being used both for reconnaissance and attack operations by the US military.

Uses of Drone Technology

Now this military technology is being used for civilian purposes by a new generation of startups. One of the main deployments is for disaster management and rescue operations. They can also be used for providing Internet connectivity and communication to remote areas, which is not possible through landline networks. Facebook bought a solar drone maker recently and Google has followed by buying another startup doing similar work.

A Solar Drone

Both the companies are trying to increase Internet penetration as they reach saturation in developed markets. Both are extremely cash rich, generating billions of dollars in cash flow each year from ad operations. More Internet users means more money for them and they are prepared to invest millions, if not billions of dollars to get Internet to more people in developing countries. It might be cheaper to provide Internet through these drones, rather than through copper or optic fiber cables. Satellites are expensive to launch and operate and might not be the most cost effective option.

Drones can provide coverage almost as good as satellites and are much cheaper to build and maintain. Usage of solar energy can allow them to sustain flights for long periods of time without refueling. It is also more environment friendly.