Though many eyes are on space as orbit develops into a thriving business ecosystem, Radical is keeping things a little closer to the ground ' but not too close. Its high-altitude, solar-powered aircraft aim to succeed where Facebook's infamous Aquila failed by refining the tech and embracing more markets. It's hard to believe that Facebook's ambitious plan to use solar-powered aircraft to provide internet access in far-flung locations got its start a decade ago. But though those dreams came crashing down when the project was scuttled, the concept remained intact. Ultra-lightweight aircraft in the stratosphere can, in theory, stay aloft almost indefinitely by powering their propellers via solar panels. Load it up with sensors, telecommunications gear, or anything else and you've got a versatile, mobile asset that isn't hindered by orbital mechanics or chaotic weather patterns. 'There's been interest in these high alt high end aircraft for a long time,' he told TechCrunch in an...
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