Airbus & CERN Partner to Promote Superconducting Tech for Clean Aviation

In summary, CERN and Airbus are partnering on superconducting technologies for future aircraft. This will reduce the weight and increase efficiency of aircraft systems. Applications for superconducting technologies include military and defense applications at altitude.
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pinball1970
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Airbus and CERN to partner on superconducting technologies for future clean aviation
https://www.airbus.com/en/newsroom/...o-partner-on-superconducting-technologies-for

"Airbus UpNext, a wholly owned subsidiary of Airbus, and CERN, the European Laboratory for Particle Physics, are launching a project to evaluate how superconductivity can contribute to the decarbonisation of future aircraft systems. The Super-Conductor for Aviation with Low Emissions (SCALE) demonstrator aims to promote the adaptation and adoption of superconducting technologies in airborne electrical distribution systems."

Also on the CERN site.

https://home.cern/news/news/knowledge-sharing/cern-and-airbus-partnership-future-clean-aviation

“Superconducting technologies have fuelled some of the greatest discoveries in high-energy physics and, if applied to aircraft power distribution systems, would drastically reduce their weight and increase their efficiency."

Also featured in this months edition of "Air International" March 2023 where this was spotted by @Astranut - thank you.
 
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Aircraft typically fly at 10 km, (30,000 ft ASL), where the air temperature is stable at -67°C.
There are now high-temperature superconductors approaching those temperatures.
It does seem sensible to watch that space.
 
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So the objective is to reduce the weight of the conductors from the batteries or fuel cells to the electric motors on the wings? Seems like a bit of overkill without more explanation. They could use HV transmission of the energy to reduce the size and weight of the conductors too, and the expense of the voltage conversion units...
 
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berkeman said:
Seems like a bit of overkill without more explanation.
There will be some military/defence applications for SC at altitude.

Maybe the upper surface of a wing will become PV silicon, with SC interconnects and motors.

There are solar UAVs being tested in USA at 60,000 ft, climbing and charging during the day, then glide and battery during the night.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boeing_SolarEagle
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BAE_Systems_PHASA-35
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Airbus_Zephyr
https://simpleflying.com/airbus-zephyr-flight-ends/
https://flightaware.com/live/flight/N469TN
https://flightaware.com/live/flight/ZULU82
 
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FAQ: Airbus & CERN Partner to Promote Superconducting Tech for Clean Aviation

What is the main goal of the Airbus and CERN partnership?

The primary goal of the Airbus and CERN partnership is to leverage superconducting technology to develop cleaner, more efficient aviation solutions. This collaboration aims to reduce the carbon footprint of the aviation industry by exploring advanced materials and technologies that can improve aircraft performance and energy efficiency.

How can superconducting technology benefit aviation?

Superconducting technology can benefit aviation by significantly reducing electrical resistance, which leads to more efficient power transmission and reduced energy losses. This can result in lighter, more efficient electric propulsion systems and other electrical components, ultimately contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and fuel consumption in aircraft.

What specific technologies are being explored in this partnership?

The partnership is exploring several superconducting technologies, including high-temperature superconductors (HTS), superconducting magnets, and cryogenic cooling systems. These technologies have the potential to revolutionize electrical systems in aircraft by providing higher efficiency, reduced weight, and enhanced performance compared to conventional systems.

What are the environmental benefits of using superconducting technology in aviation?

Using superconducting technology in aviation can lead to significant environmental benefits, such as reduced carbon emissions and lower fuel consumption. By improving the efficiency of electrical systems and propulsion, superconducting technology can help decrease the aviation industry's overall environmental impact and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change.

When can we expect to see superconducting technology implemented in commercial aviation?

The implementation of superconducting technology in commercial aviation is still in the research and development phase, and it may take several years before these technologies are ready for widespread adoption. However, the partnership between Airbus and CERN represents a significant step forward in accelerating the development and potential integration of superconducting technology into future aircraft designs.

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