Unique 3D printed sensor technology may be a real gamechanger in NASA’s future efforts to send humans to the moon and possibly Mars. Recent funding is fueling a much-anticipated program that could potentially make great strides in advancing the way NASA can detect life-sustaining elements in space and even monitor the health and safety of its astronauts.
The world of 3D printing really hits home for Vaughn students and alumni. Vaughn College is at the forefront of 3D printing technology, thanks to a 3D prototyping innovation center that was launched just a few years ago. It is equipped with 15 3D printers and two 3D scanners to provide students with hands-on opportunities to transform their concepts into physical objects.
What is 3D printed sensory technology?
Think of the way a printer uses ink to print things such as newspapers, for example. Now, take that principle and add amazing innovations where the ink is replaced with nanomaterials―such as carbon nanotubes and graphene―and applying them, layer-by-layer, onto a substrate to create miniature sensors.
The result is a set of highly sensitive tiny powerhouses that are lightweight, can withstand radiation and require less power, thus keeping them stable in extreme conditions. This 3D printer could produce these tiny platforms that may someday be sent on planetary rovers for further exploration in search of life throughout the solar system.
Vaughn Alumni, Jade Kukula ’07, who earned her bachelor of science in mechanical engineering, is no stranger to 3D printers. She studied “swarm robotics” for her bachelor’s degree project. The term “swarm robots” refers to a coordination of multiple robots that can communicate with one another. Right out of college, she took her learnings from Vaughn and applied them to the Hubble Space Telescope team, where she became responsible for maintaining the health and safety of the telescopes, as well as related science and engineering data.
Making it happen
NASA engineer Mahmooda Sultana won a $2 million technology development award funded by NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate’s (STMD) Early Career Initiative (ECI) to further develop the nanomaterial-based detector platform. As reported by Lori Keesey of NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, this potentially revolutionary sensor technology stems from a self-contained platform, measuring only two-by-three inches, that is capable of sensing minute concentrations of gases, vapor, atmospheric pressure and temperature. Additionally, this platform would then transmit the data via a wireless antenna. Pretty cool, right?
For the next two years, Sultana and her team at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, will be working on this amazing program. They will design the sensor platform to determine the best combination of materials to achieve parts-per-billion concentrations of water, ammonia, methane and hydrogen. Northeastern University will then take Sultana’s design and use the 3D printing system to complete the process, simplifying the integration and packaging process.
Up until now, sensors were built one at a time and then integrated into other components. The advent of 3D printing will change that by allowing technicians to print a suite of sensors on one platform.
Interested in pursuing an engineering and technology career?
Vaughn offers a wide range of associate and bachelor’s degrees to prepare you for an exciting career in engineering, technology, management or aviation, that will set you apart from the competition. Here are a few of the majors offered at Vaughn which provide students with a rigorous and comprehensive course of study to enable them to become successful in their chosen fields.
Did you know over 635,000 new maintenance technicians will be hired worldwide over the course of the next 20 years? There are many possible career paths open to an aviation maintenance technician. Vaughn College Aviation Training Institute (ATI) graduates have found rewarding careers with the federal government, in the telecommunications field and with aerospace companies, just to name a few. From working on turbines found on aircraft, on trains and in nuclear power plants―whether your strengths lie in mechanical, analytical or managerial skills―a career in aviation maintenance can be the perfect fit for your future.
What is an Aviation Maintenance Technician?
Aircraft maintenance technicians (AMTs)―also known as airframe and powerplant (A&P) technicians―work around the clock for your safety by ensuring every plane and train passes inspection before leaving for its destination. If you’ve ever flown on an airplane, for example, you know the drill. From waiting on Transportation Security Administration (TSA) lines, to boarding the plane, the endgame is to arrive at your destination safely. If you ever wondered who is working behind the scenes to keep the planes properly maintained, the answer might be―you! Vaughn can help launch your dream career, and in less time than you may think.
Set Your Sights on Vaughn College
The ATI at Vaughn is the perfect launching pad where you can earn your Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) A&P certificate to prepare for a high-paying career. In fact, the latest forecast from Boeing revealed the industry will need as many as 635,000 new technicians by 2037―and that’s just on the commercial aviation side.
Vaughn offers many degree programs in this exciting, high-paying field that can open many doors for students interested in aviation careers:
Aviation Maintenance Certificate Program
Looking to start your career sooner than later? This certificate program will give you the skills to install, build, diagnose and maintain multimillion-dollar equipment and systems in today’s aviation industry. Students who have a passion for hands-on learning in mechanical skills that involve airframe and powerplant maintenance operations are instructed on servicing, repair and maintenance of airframe structures and powerplants. This program can be completed in as little as 16 months, equaling four semesters, getting you out of the classroom and working on the ground sooner than you could have imagined.
Once you complete a Part 147 FAA-approved aviation maintenance technical program―such as the one offered at the ATI at Vaughn―you’ll be qualified to take the required Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) exams. To earn your A&P certificate, you must pass the written, oral and practical exams. If you hold a GED or high school diploma, you can also obtain an associate in occupational studies as part of this FAA-approved program. Students who complete their A&P certification―and who decide to pursue a more advanced degree at Vaughn―will be awarded 30 credits toward a bachelor’s or associate degree in aviation maintenance.
Aviation Maintenance Associate in Applied Science (AAS)
This two-year college degree incorporates a balanced combination of theoretical study and practical hands-on laboratory experience, along with an emphasis on computer applications and manufacturing practices. Graduates with an aviation maintenance associate in applied science degree will have the expertise to work in entry-level aviation maintenance positions. Additionally, they will be qualified to work in aircraft manufacturing or related fields within the general, corporate or airline maintenance industries. Other career opportunities include positions at any airline or flight operations department, component manufacturers or repair shops. Graduates who earn an AAS then have the option pursue a bachelor of science degree in aviation maintenance.
Aviation Maintenance―Bachelor of Science (BS)
Looking to take your skills to the next level? The aviation maintenance bachelor of science degree will prepare you with a keen ability to communicate and provide a high level of critical and analytical skills to land supervisory positions in the aviation maintenance field. Graduates will have a well-rounded understanding of theoretical study, complemented by practical hands-on laboratory experience. Additionally, graduates will become thoroughly knowledgeable in computer applications and a receive a sound background in manufacturing practices. Career opportunities related to this degree include maintenance line manager, specialized shop manager and maintenance quality auditor.
Don’t miss out on capitalizing on this exciting aviation career opportunity. You have what it takes to be a part of this growing industry―and Vaughn has what it takes to get you there!
Check out all that’s possible with Vaughn’s maintenance degree programs and certificates through the Aviation Training Institute.
Have you ever dreamed of turning your hobby of flying unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, into a full-blown career? Well, we at Vaughn College are here to say that dream is possible. The UAV industry is soaring to new heights as enthusiasts are turning their aviation hobby into one of today’s most unique and sought-after careers.
Wondering what kind of UAV careers are out there? We’re here to help you figure that out. Vaughn College is one of the select colleges in the country that offers classes in UAV technology, usage, and drone law―all of which will help fully prepare you in every aspect of the field. We also have communities for like-minded UAV hobbyists, such as the UAV club, where students and faculty put their heads together to build, program and compete in top contests around the nation.
Below, we have listed various industries that are seeking UAV pilots to give them a bird’s-eye view to enhance their specific niche or field.
Real estate
The booming real estate industry is capitalizing on the talents of UAV pilots to provide aerial stills, videos and 3D maps of properties for sale. This technology is taking virtual tours up a notch with their capability to showcase aerial and ground footage.
Filmmaking
Have you ever watched a movie or television show and wondered how they shoot those amazing aerial shots? These sequences can be filmed quickly and efficiently using a UAV.
Public Safety
Last year, over 900 public safety agencies used drones. That’s more than double the number that was only two years earlier. Our country’s fire and police departments are using them to create specific maps of local schools and buildings, determine exit points in the case of a fire or police emergency, and to locate victims after a natural disaster.
Insurance
In the past, insurance inspectors or adjusters would physically evaluate the damage done to a home by severe weather. Today, drone insurance inspections are being done by drone pilots who can fly a set pattern over a damaged roof or other area and retrieve the necessary images to evaluate the claim.
Journalism
Drones capture the drama of breaking news stories that range from flooded disaster areas to raging wild fires, using documentary-type footage, as well as stills for an artistically written piece.
Agriculture
Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) maps help farmers assess the condition and location of their crops, eliminating the need for farmers to walk their fields. New software can process the raw data collected by drone pilots, which in turn can help increase crop yields.
Transportation
UAV pilots can assist cities in reducing the time and money it takes for inspections of critical infrastructure in transportation, while increasing the accuracy of the collected data. Thirty-five states are already using UAVs for their regular transportation activities.
Energy
Inspections are a big part of the energy industry, so it comes as no surprise that UAVs are providing faster, less expensive ways to inspect power lines and solar panels, among other tasks.
Telecommunications
UAV pilots are playing a key role in this industry and they’ve changed the landscape of necessary operations, such as tower surveys and inspections, making the process safer and more cost-effective for telecommunications giants like AT&T and Verizon, as examples. In fact, Verizon was so impressed with this potential, they purchased the drone company Skyward in 2017.
Education
From elementary schools to colleges and universities, educators are weaving this powerful technology into their classroom activities, sparking interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), geography, and collaborative work.
Have questions about a UAV career? Our drone law professor, Loretta Alkalay, brings years of experience as an aviation attorney and former regional counsel for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA.)
Vaughn’s UAV Club has been instrumental in getting the word out in the past by hosting the highly anticipated festivities surrounding International Drone Day (IDD). This year, IDD will be celebrated on Saturday, May 4, marking this aviation phenomenon’s fifth anniversary. Stay tuned for this year’s event!
Image Source: NASA
As a finish to Vaughn College’s celebration of Women’s History Month, we present this blog about Expedition 57―the first space mission where the only two astronauts representing the United States were both female.
Setting the pace
Launched on June 6, 2018, Expedition 57 began a 197-day mission where it circled the globe 3,152 times, covering 83.3 million miles. The crew consisted of expedition Commander Alexander Gerst of ESA (European Space Agency), Soyuz Commander Sergey Prokopyev, Oleg Kononenko (RSA), and David Saint-Jacques (CSA). Completing―and distinguishing―this crew were NASA flight engineer Serena Auñón-Chancellor and NASA astronaut Anne McClain. Together, they formed a highly successful―and fun―space-traveling team.
Science in the making
Fondly referred to as a “world-class orbiting laboratory,” the Expedition 57 crew worked aboard the International Space Station (ISS), where they contributed to hundreds of experiments in biology, biotechnology, and physical and Earth science. Some exciting discoveries on this space mission included investigations into new cancer treatment methods, algae growth in space, and the installation of a new Life Sciences Glovebox, which is a sealed work area for life science and technology investigations that can accommodate two astronauts. And look at which two crew members were diligently at work in the ISS robotics workstation! The two United States female astronauts made history for women in space.
Image Source: NASA
Timeless activities
The Expedition 57 space mission was all about science―but not without some fun thrown in for good measure. To lighten the mood, the crew had no problem showing off their personalities by dressing up in costumes on Halloween. They might have missed out on trick-or-treating, but they wasted no time relaying photos back to Earth to give everyone a good laugh.
Image Source: Space.com
The crew returned to Earth on December 20, 2018, closing out a groundbreaking trip which conducted many successful experiments.
The momentum of women empowering other women―along with recognition of their achievements and successes―motivates them to reach for their dreams. Many of us might not make it to the stars as Serena Auñón-Chancellor and Anne McClain did, but our confidence can lead us to our own happy place.
Visit Our Open House on Saturday, April 13
Are you a woman interested in a career in aviation? Register for our Open House on April 13 at 10 a.m. to learn how you can take your future to the skies.
As part of the ongoing celebration of Women’s History Month, the Women in Aviation International Conference (WAI) celebrated its 30th Anniversary last week in Long Beach, California. This milestone celebration hosted attendees from around the globe, representing all aspects of the aviation community and recognizing powerful women who have not only paved the way to help change the landscape of women in aviation but empowered other women to do the same.
In recognition of their groundbreaking achievements, we are spotlighting five influential women in aviation who have been inducted into the WAI Pioneer Hall of Fame.
Bessie Coleman
First African-American to Earn International Pilot’s License
Bessie Coleman broke the racial barrier and became the first African-American to earn an international pilot’s license. Born in Atlanta, Texas in 1892, Coleman moved to Chicago after briefly attending Langston University in Oklahoma. She was an avid reader and worked as a laundress, but it was during her time in Chicago, where she was inspired by World War I pilots, that she decided to pursue a pilot’s license.
Knowing Europe had a more liberal attitude toward women and people of color, Coleman learned to speak French and worked hard to earn enough money to move to Paris. On June 15, 1921 she earned her pilot’s license from the Federation Aeronautique Internationale. She moved back to the United States, where she flew at air shows and taught aviation to African-Americans.
Sadly, she didn’t live long enough to make her dream of establishing a flying school for African-Americans a reality, but her legacy inspired the Bessie Coleman Aero groups in the early 1930s, which held the first all-black air show in America and attracted 15,000 spectators. Almost 90 years later, the event has become an annual aviation celebration.
Harriet Quimby
First Licensed Female Pilot in the United States
On August 11, 1911, Harriet Quimby became the first licensed female pilot in the United States, ten years before Amelia Earhart. Her daring and adventurous side put her name in the books on April 16, 1912 as the first woman to fly across the English Channel. This incredible feat catapulted her name in the industry, but the sinking of the Titanic two days earlier overshadowed her accomplishment in the news. She is also credited with being the first woman to fly over Mexico City.
Prior to earning her pilot’s license, Quimby was an accomplished writer. In 1911, she managed to write seven screenplays which were made into silent movies. At that time in history, she was the only woman who wrote about and encouraged other women to enter the field of aviation.
“In my opinion, there is no reason why the aeroplane should not open a fruitful occupation for women. I see no reason why they cannot realize handsome incomes by carrying passengers between adjacent towns, why they cannot derive incomes from parcel deliveries, from taking photographs from above or from conducting schools for flying.”
Katherine Cheung
“China’s Amelia Earhart”
Listed in the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum as the nation’s first Asian aviatrix, Katherine Cheung switched gears from studying music at the Los Angeles Conservatory of Music and the University of Southern California to obtaining an international commercial airline pilot’s license.
Born in China in 1904, Cheung moved to the United States to live with her father and attend college. She married in 1924 and fell in love with flying a few years later while taking an airplane ride with a relative who was a pilot. Soon after, she enrolled for flying lessons, and in 1932 received her pilot certification, the first Asian-American female pilot in the United States to do so. Aerobatics soon became one of her passions. She entered competitive air races and became a member of the Women’s International Association of Aeronautics that same year, launching her aerobatics/air show career. Three years later, Cheung was invited to become a member of the International Association of Women Pilots – the Ninety-Nines – where she befriended Amelia Earhart.
Aside from being honored in the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, the Beijing Air Force Aviation Museum calls Cheung “China’s Amelia Earhart.”
Jeana Yeager
Member of the Groundbreaking Voyager Team and Winner of the Collier Trophy
Jeana Yeager was born in Fort Worth, Texas on May 18, 1952. She moved to Santa Rosa, California in 1977, where she worked as a draftsman and surveyor for a company specializing in geothermal energy. Her fascination with helicopters prompted her to earn her private pilot’s license at the age of 26. In 1980, Yeager met fellow pilot Dick Rutan and his brother Burt, an aircraft designer, at an airshow in Chino, California. The rest, they say, is history. The three innovators brainstormed their dream of flying around the world without stopping and without refueling. After six years of design, construction and development, the Voyager team constructed the unique aircraft made almost entirely of lightweight graphite-honeycomb composite materials. Expected to take 18 months, the milestone flight― which took place between December 14 and December 23, 1986―set the record, taking only nine days, three minutes and forty-four seconds.
In recognition of this revolutionary aviation accomplishment, President Reagan presented the Voyager crew with the Presidential Citizenship Medal, which had been awarded only 16 times before in history. In addition, Jeana Yeager earned the Collier Trophy―aviation’s most prestigious award.
Bernice “Bee” Haydu
Former WASP President Who is Among the First Women to Fly Military Planes for the Army
Bernice “Bee” Haydu was born on December 15, 1920 in Montclair, New Jersey. After graduating high school, she enrolled in aviation classes on the weekends while working as a secretary. She attended the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) in Sweetwater, Texas and completed her training in March 1944. Haydu is among the first women to fly military airplanes for the Army Air Force. Her dedication to WASP placed her front and center as president of the organization from 1975-1978, where she led the fight in Congress to recognize the WASP as veterans. In 1977, President Carter signed the bill into law, allowing the WASP access to Veterans Administration benefits.
Are you a woman interested in a career in aviation? Register for our Open House on April 13 at 10 a.m. to learn how you can take your future to the skies.
The Mars exploration exhibition has a new robot and its name matches the mission as NASA’s InSight spacecraft is gearing up to give scientist’s “insight” into the Red Planet’s interior as it studies the Martian underworld.
Sticking the landing
Excitement filled the control room at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory last November when the InSight spacecraft sent back confirmation of its safe arrival on Mars’ surface. After launching from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California six months earlier, InSight travelled 300 million miles and landed flawlessly on the Red Planet in what NASA engineers and scientists are calling “a nail-biting descent.”
Traditionally, Florida’s Space Coast is the launching pad for such voyages; however, this was the first interplanetary mission lift-off from the West Coast of the United States. InSight, which stands for Interior Exploration using Seismic Investigations, Geodesy and Heat Transport, is the ninth lander in history to be sent for Mars exploration by the United States.
Robotics in motion
InSight is equipped with a robotic arm that will lift a dome-shaped package containing seismometers and a heat probe up from the main deck of the spacecraft and on to the surface of Mars. These instruments will burrow about 16 feet down into the planet’s interior structure, where the seismometers will measure surface movements and produce sonograms of its interior.
Vaughn College has a keen interest in mechatronic engineering and the development of robotic equipment, having set the stage for excellence in robotics. Its robotics team earned the world championship title in the 2016 VEX Worlds Robotics Competition and placed among the top three in the world in the 2017 and 2018 competitions.
Unlike temblors caused by plate tectonics found on Earth, Martian temblors are generated when crust cracks due to the cooling and shrinking of the planet’s interior. This groundbreaking mission, no pun intended, is extraordinary since the interior of Mars has been basically frozen in place since it formed almost 4.5 billion years ago. That’s billion with a ‘b’! Scientists are hopeful to record anywhere between 10-to-12 marsquakes over the next two years.
Hitching a ride
The InSight spacecraft wasn’t alone on its rocket ride last year. Two CubeSats―or miniature satellites―named MarCo-A and MarCo-B, hitched a ride for their own Mars exploration mission to show how tiny spacecraft can explore deep space. This new technology tested flawlessly as NASA scientists stated the MarCo duo was instrumental in the landing, having been able to relay data from the InSight spacecraft to mission control.
Fun fact: CubeSats are no strangers to orbiting the Earth. In fact, hundreds have been launched in recent years, although the InSight spacecraft mission marks the first interplanetary voyage for the identical satellite spacecrafts.
Mission possible
Over the next two years, the InSight spacecraft will have an unprecedented look at the interior structure and composition of Mars as it listens for marsquakes and tremors while collecting data. These findings will help scientists understand how Mars and other rocky planets like Earth formed, and could also serve as a time machine to give scientists a glimpse at what Earth may have looked like tens of millions of years after it formed.
Robotics at Vaughn College
Are you interested in learning more about robotics? Vaughn’s mechatronic engineering degree program can prepare you for an exciting future in robotics and may even set you on a trajectory to discovering possibilities that are out of this world.
At Vaughn College, we are an insatiable group of learners with curious minds, always looking to explore the dynamic aeronautical world around us. Our faculty and student body are continuously working together to discover―and overcome―limitations in the industries we serve and uncover new possibilities for the best possible future. And we are not alone in this quest.
Richard Branson is always seeking ways to redefine aeronautics―which is something we at Vaughn know a thing or two about. His recent “space-tourism” venture, Virgin Galactic, is planning to bring space travel to anyone who wants to go into orbit, experience the Earth from an unforgettable perspective, and fly with the stars―as opposed to the clouds.
The journey begins with the “SpaceShipTwo,” a rocket-powered plane that flies into space after it detaches from its mothership. The space plane travels at a speed of 2,300 miles per hour and reaches top speed in eight seconds. An interesting incentive to taking this scenic route is to reach 50 miles above Earth, which will earn each passenger astronaut wings from the USA. With the spaceship’s first successful test flight underway, Branson believes that the first flight could begin sometime this year. And many customers are ready, as Virgin Galactic already has close to 700 customers who have either put down a deposit on a ticket or have already paid in full.
And Richard Branson is not alone in outer space. Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin just completed its tenth test launch with a projection of starting flights later this year, and Elon Musk’s SpaceX Starship is currently being revamped with stainless steel. All three are orbiting in the same lofty vicinity, aspiring to be the first enterprise to bring their customers into space.
The curious minds of these three pioneers, coupled with the advances in aerospace over many decades is what―soon enough―will make space tourism an actual reality. From the first manned moon landing in 1969 via the Apollo 11 to sending robots (remember PUFFER?) to space to explore surfaces on planets such as Mars, to the groundbreaking research that crews discover in NASA’s International Space Station―space travel and discoveries have come a long way. Branson, Bezos and Musk are examples of those who are willing to go the extra mile to prove that something wonderful is just beyond the horizon.
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For the aviation sector, SaaS (Software as a Service) solutions offer a higher level of productivity for airline maintenance operations, as well the opportunity for improved safety and cost reductions. However, this technology trend has been slow to pick up speed for maintenance professionals in their quest for emerging technology solutions.
This blog provides three cogent reasons why the adoption of cloud-based computing is a no-brainer for those in charge of making decisions for maintenance operations.
1. Anywhere, Anytime
Today, cloud computing is revolutionizing business as more users are now free to use applications and information from any device with Internet access―such as tablets on the maintenance shop floor, or laptops out in the field. Since all software and information is stored remotely and managed on a cloud-based server, users no longer have to worry about security, data corruption, viruses, computer theft, or equipment malfunctions. The provider of the service manages and updates all information stored online so the users of the service―or their Information Technology (IT) departments―don’t have to, thus freeing up time for employees to focus on other tasks. What would you rather have your maintenance team working on―aviation maintenance or computer software maintenance?
2. Real-time Access
Another reason implementing a cloud-based system makes sense is how it optimizes the mechanic and his or her work. The truth of the matter is no one in the maintenance operation benefits more from cloud computing than the mechanic. Having real-time, immediate access to the most up-to-date libraries and regulatory information right on the shop floor is a tremendous improvement over older processes which require a dedicated workstation, or even a special room for maintenance and regulatory libraries.
Order data, manuals, service information, parts availability, customer contact info, the latest regulatory updates, the most current maintenance procedures, forms, business procedures and more are all available the moment they are needed. And this information can be accessed anywhere from any computer with an Internet connection; that adds mobility to the job. Who wouldn’t want that.
3. Easy Collaboration
The third reason to welcome cloud-based aviation maintenance is that it allows for the harmonious transfer of information for everyone within the operation. With the cloud, aviation maintenance professionals can more easily and efficiently manage and share information with fellow workers and the company for improved collaboration.
It should be noted that collaboration is one of the key advantages of cloud computing. As everything is stored in the cloud, it is easy for multiple users to access the same application and data at the same time and easily share information about particular data. Notes with specialized information can be attached to documents. Company procedures and processes can be added to any publication. Instant access to collaborative information improves communication and business processes which in turn reduces risk for the company and mechanics. Cloud computing saves time and money and generates a team spirit to every project. In essence, the cloud brings every stakeholder in the operation closer and helps to make communication clearer.
The world’s first hydrogen fuel cell-powered train rode the rails in Lower Saxony, Germany last month when European railway manufacturer Alstom launched two models of their new commercial trains, Coradia iLint. This latest innovation is a collaboration of cross-border teamwork between France and Germany to provide a climate-friendly alternative to diesel-fueled trains.
Fueled by the elements
The Coradia iLint uses fuel cells that turn hydrogen and oxygen into electricity releasing steam and water instead of large plumes of smoke and carbon dioxide like diesel trains. Fueled at a mobile hydrogen filling station, gaseous hydrogen stored in a 40-foot high steel container is pumped into the train. Alstom reports one tank of hydrogen will provide enough fuel for the train to travel approximately 621 miles. Plans for a stationary filling station is scheduled for operation in 2021 when Alstom plans to deliver an additional 14 Coradia iLint trains with a price tag of just over $93 million.
Going to distance
The two electric trains can travel up to 87 miles per hour and will operate on a 62-mile line carrying passengers between the cities of Cuxhaven, Bremerhaven, Bremervorde and Buxtehude. Previously, this line was served by diesel trains operated by Eisenbahnen und Verkehrsbetriebe Elbe-Weser (EVB.) The Coradia iLint trains replace diesel engines eliminating the need to electrify the entire track with a charged third rail or overhead powerlines, as would be needed for more traditional electric trains to function.
Clean travel
In an ongoing effort to reduce air pollution, Coradia iLint just may be a trailblazer in revolutionizing the rail system with its zero-emissions and low-noise output—making hydrogen a rock star element as an efficient alternative to diesel. As for the passenger experience, it’s one quiet ride.
Electric airplanes may become a reality sooner than we think as Norway launched its inaugural flight of an electric two-seater plane last June. With some of the busiest flight routes in Europe, Norway is striving to be a pioneer in the electric airplane industry with hopes of launching its first commercial electric-powered aircraft within the next 10 years.
Tesla-inspired
When we hear today’s buzz about electric engines our minds turn to Tesla, the American multinational corporation that specializes in electric vehicles. Norway is no stranger to Tesla, as the country boasts one of the largest Tesla markets selling around 8,500 cars last year. This comes on the wings of western Europe’s largest oil and gas exporter pledging to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 40 percent by 2030. This dedication to clean living has prompted Norway to use the tourism sales pitch “Powered by Nature” to further their efforts to be a pioneer in the electric plane market.
Electric flight
The two-seater electric plane made by Slovenian manufacturer Pipistrel took off from Oslo Airport with none other than the transport minister in the passenger seat. With a flight time of up to one hour, this groundbreaking test-flight may just be the beginning of pollution-free aviation, according to Avinor, a state-owned company that operates Norway’s airports.
Cleaner, quieter skies
Since jet engines run on fuel they not only produce fossil-fuel emissions but noisy skies. Electric engines can be the answer to both of these environmental issues but not without limitations. With cleaner, quieter skies comes the question, “Where does the pilot recharge the plane?” The reality is planes need to land somewhere to refuel, but in the case of electric planes it’s a matter of recharging.
Vaughn’s take
Capt. Pete Russo, PhD, department chair and assistant professor of aviation at Vaughn College weighed in on the future of electric airplanes. “I’m in favor of electric airplanes,” said Russo. “The electronics in today’s planes is already advancing beyond our expectations. The work being done in Norway is demonstrating the capability of what we need to create pollution-free aviation.” Russo said the manufacturing of electric engines weighs heavily on the industry and making the switch to electric would have a major impact on how we approach the future of aviation. “Tesla has revolutionized the electric car industry,” said Russo. “It’s just a matter of time before we see electric planes in our skies.”
Airports getting on board
Airports servicing electric planes will need to get on board with a new flight planning process to accommodate this new wave of aviation. Here are a few ways airports and aviation personnel will need to adapt:
Airports will need to install charging stations
Flight times will need to be adjusted since electric planes fly at a slower rate of speed than jet-propelled engines and will need time to recharge
Pilots will need to track their charge the same way they monitor their fuel supply.
Charging ahead
Some say it’s not a matter of “if” but “when” that we see electric airplanes in our skies. The possibility of electric-flight covering short distances may be in our future, but skeptics say there’s no indication we may be replacing today’s long-haul flights with electric propulsion.
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