Date of Award

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Aerospace, Physics, and Space Sciences

First Advisor

Danilo de Camargo Branco

Second Advisor

Eric Swenson

Third Advisor

Brooke Wheeler

Fourth Advisor

Donald Platt

Abstract

Alternative propulsion technologies in aviation have been a long-time topic of interest as operators aim to bypass growing fuel prices and meet environmental sustainability requirements set globally. Research regarding alternative propulsion technologies is primarily centered around marginally improving efficiency of combustion systems or large-scale implementation of novel technologies. This research evaluates the feasibility of implementing solar-integrated propulsion for general aviation aircraft to extend range through a comparison of full-electric, hybrid solar, and internal combustion engine propulsion systems. This evaluation of existing technology by range analysis indicates that hybrid solar‑electric propulsion is viable primarily for short‑range training and recreational aircraft, rather than as a replacement for long‑range cross‑country combustion‑engine platforms. Existing solar technology could yield up to an 85% increase in range compared to the fullelectric Velis Electro, while technological improvements toward near theoretical limits could allow for up to 1,067% range increase, competitive with comparable internal combustion engine systems.

Download

Share

COinS