Development of a Small Long Endurance Hybrid PEM Fuel Cell Powered UAV

A polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell powered uninhabited air vehicle using compressed hydrogen, is being developed by California State University, Los Angeles in collaboration with Oklahoma State University and Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies. A 150-Watt PEM fuel cell, augmented by a 60 Watt, 350-mAH lithium ion battery pack, powers an aerodynamically efficient composite airframe constructed of carbon and fiberglass. The battery provides additional power for takeoff and climb while the fuel cell powers cruise conditions. The UAV has an overall weight of 5 kg and a 4-meter wingspan. A test flight is scheduled for September, 2007 with the goal of achieving a world record flight time of 16 hours for this class of UAV.