Last week, central Alberta witnessed the unusual presence of a 20-meter solar-powered airship near Rocky Mountain House, sparking curiosity among onlookers. The airship, equivalent in size to a school bus, was engaged in aerial survey data collection tests by a joint team from Cloudline, a South African aerospace company, and its Canadian operational partner, 3 Points in Space Media.
According to Sean Adams, the CEO of 3 Points in Space Media, the airship’s technology, while reminiscent of traditional blimps, incorporates innovative autonomous control systems. The crew conducted flight tests with TC Energy to inspect pipeline corridors in the region.
The airship, designated as a remotely piloted aircraft system, is capable of covering vast distances for data collection purposes, particularly in remote areas for monitoring pipelines and infrastructure. Unlike conventional aircraft or smaller drones, the airship’s 40-kilogram payload capacity allows it to carry heavier camera and LiDAR sensors over extended ranges.
Despite its advantages, airships like this one may face limitations in severe weather conditions compared to crewed aircraft. However, the potential for quieter, multi-data gathering flights presents a promising future for such technology.
Michael Adams, VP of research and development at 3 Points in Space Media, emphasized the historical significance of airship technology, harking back to its golden age in the early 20th century. To bridge the past with the present, a piece of fabric from the Graf Zeppelin, a renowned airship from the 1920s, was attached to the modern airship.
The presence of the airship in Rocky Mountain House generated considerable local interest, with Mayor Shane Boniface expressing amazement at the rare sight. The airship’s visit created more social media buzz than even a recent tornado in the area.
While Cloudline operates airships globally, including in South Africa and Namibia, autonomous airships are still a novelty in Canadian airspace. The next phase for the flight team involves cold-weather trials in Northern Ontario to enhance the airship’s performance in sub-zero temperatures and Arctic conditions.
