China has launched the maiden flight of a unique electric tethered aerostat, designed for round-the-clock monitoring of energy infrastructure and the natural environment. The helium-filled device can remain airborne for up to 24 hours without interruption, allowing it to effectively monitor power lines and detect potential threats such as forest fires or wire icing. With an operational range of up to 20 kilometers, the system is indispensable for large-area surveillance.
The aerostat’s structure is impressive in scale: its envelope measures 32.8 meters in length, 13.8 meters in height, and has a total volume of 1,818 cubic meters. The device is held steadily at an altitude of approximately 200 meters by a durable cable connected to a ground-based winch. Inside, it houses a gondola, tail assembly, pressure maintenance system, and advanced control and monitoring modules, ensuring reliable performance in any weather conditions.
According to project technical director Gen Lina, the smart platform based on the aerostat has already been integrated into the digital infrastructure of the Liaoning province energy sector. It is capable not only of monitoring the condition of power lines, but also of tracking atmospheric data and promptly detecting wildfire outbreaks in forests. By leveraging big data and advanced information processing algorithms, the system delivers high accuracy and rapid response to any emergencies.
Technical features
The aerostat is equipped with a suite of sensors and cameras that transmit real-time data to a ground station. All incoming information is analyzed on a dedicated platform, allowing for the rapid detection of faults and forecasting of potential accidents. Additionally, the system can operate automatically, minimizing human involvement and reducing risks for personnel.
A key aspect of the project is the integration of the aerostat with a unified monitoring network that consolidates data from various sources. This not only enables control over the condition of energy facilities, but also allows for tracking environmental changes—especially relevant for regions with a high risk of natural disasters.
Applications and prospects
The new development has already proven effective in pilot trials. The aerostat is capable of detecting even slight changes in the condition of power lines, promptly alerting operators to potential issues. This significantly increases the reliability of power supply and reduces the risk of emergency situations.
Beyond the energy sector, this technology can be used for forest monitoring, environmental control, and even civil defense. The versatility of the platform offers wide-ranging opportunities for its implementation across various sectors of the economy and infrastructure.
The future of aerostats
Experts note that the introduction of electric tethered aerostats could mark a new stage in the development of monitoring and infrastructure management systems. Their use can significantly reduce maintenance costs and improve operational safety. In the coming years, an expanded range of applications is expected, along with new models featuring enhanced capabilities.
In case you didn’t know, State Grid Liaoning Electric Power Supply Co is one of the largest power grid operators in China. The company is actively implementing innovative technologies to improve the efficiency and safety of energy supply. In recent years, the company has invested heavily in developing digital platforms and smart monitoring systems, allowing it to remain an industry leader and set new standards for the country’s energy sector.
