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THALES AND DGAC OPERATE WORLD’S FIRST SOLAR-POWERED AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL RADAR STATION IN CHILE
The world’s first Air Traffic Control radar 100% powered by solar energy is now in full operation in the Atacama Desert, securing DGAC’s air traffic control and surveillance in Northern Chile.
Thales co-mounted STAR NG & RSM Air Traffic Control radar, 100% powered by solar energy ©Thales
Chile’s General Directorate of Civil Aeronautics (DGAC), Chile’s civil aviation authority and Thales are operating the world’s first 100% powered by solar energy air traffic control radar station. This technological innovation places Chile at the forefront of sustainable initiatives within the civil aviation industry for a greener future and ensures secure air traffic surveillance in Northern Chile.
Developed by Thales for the Dirección General de Aeronáutica Civil (DGAC), the solar-powered radar system is comprised of an advanced and efficient STAR NG primary radar and RSM secondary radar. Combined, the radars provide all the operational surveillance requirements of both civil and military air traffic control detecting both slow and fast-moving targets such as helicopters, commercial planes, and jets. The 100% solar-panelled ATC radar station will help monitor the commercial flights operated daily by the DGAC in the country, providing increased safety and reliability.
Located in the Atacama Desert in Northern Chile at more than 3500 metres, the radar station will run exclusively on sustainable energy by harnessing the region's high solar incidence. Equipped with 340 strategically positioned panels, the station has a maximum generation capacity of approximately 960 kWh per day, covering an area of 10,000 m2.
Launched one year ago, the innovation in terms of alternate and greener power generation is an example of Thales’ role as a strategic partner, with engineers and technology being at the forefront to deliver sustainable solutions in all environments. In addition to the solar panels, the system includes efficient energy use and advanced battery and backup generator technology to ensure the overall operation of the station.
Chile’s General Directorate of Civil Aeronautics (DGAC), Chile’s civil aviation authority and Thales are operating the world’s first 100% powered by solar energy air traffic control radar station. This technological innovation places Chile at the forefront of sustainable initiatives within the civil aviation industry for a greener future and ensures secure air traffic surveillance in Northern Chile.
Developed by Thales for the Dirección General de Aeronáutica Civil (DGAC), the solar-powered radar system is comprised of an advanced and efficient STAR NG primary radar and RSM secondary radar. Combined, the radars provide all the operational surveillance requirements of both civil and military air traffic control detecting both slow and fast-moving targets such as helicopters, commercial planes, and jets. The 100% solar-panelled ATC radar station will help monitor the commercial flights operated daily by the DGAC in the country, providing increased safety and reliability.
Located in the Atacama Desert in Northern Chile at more than 3500 metres, the radar station will run exclusively on sustainable energy by harnessing the region's high solar incidence. Equipped with 340 strategically positioned panels, the station has a maximum generation capacity of approximately 960 kWh per day, covering an area of 10,000 m2.
Launched one year ago, the innovation in terms of alternate and greener power generation is an example of Thales’ role as a strategic partner, with engineers and technology being at the forefront to deliver sustainable solutions in all environments. In addition to the solar panels, the system includes efficient energy use and advanced battery and backup generator technology to ensure the overall operation of the station.
www.thalesgroup.com
