Energy-Oriented Trajectory Optimization of Solar Aircraft using fmincon Function in MATLAB

This paper is inspired by growing number of applications conducted by unmanned aerial systems and prevalent concentration on solar-powered systems for planet exploration and atmospheric research. An energy-oriented trajectory optimization is presented. Sun tracking algorithm, basic model of lower atmosphere and Hottel’s model for estimating solar beam radiation are used to generate solar irradiation environment. Energy collection and energy loss models are developed via linear momentum equations, characteristics of selected aircraft and solar propulsion system. Presented trajectory optimization problem is solved via calculus of variations and fmincon function in MATLAB.