Windracers to supply NORCE with ULTRA aircraft for Antarctic research
by Sophie Jenkins
London, UK (SPX) Sep 19, 2024

Windracers, a producer of cost-effective autonomous cargo aircraft, has secured a contract with the Norwegian independent research institute, NORCE, to deliver two ULTRA aircraft. These aircraft will be deployed to support scientific survey missions in Antarctica.

The Windracers ULTRAs are set to contribute to the Troll Observing Network (TONe), a cutting-edge observation network focused on one of the least-studied regions of Antarctica, surrounding the Norwegian Troll research station in Dronning Maud Land. TONe aims to enhance Norway's research capabilities and provide critical data for Norwegian and international researchers to further their understanding of the Antarctic environment.

"NORCE will employ two Windracers ULTRAs to help carry out a critical environmental mission of global importance, namely, to gain a comprehensive knowledge of the physical, biological, chemical and geological processes taking place now in Antarctica," said Simon Muderack, CEO of Windracers. "Windracers ULTRA is uniquely suited to support NORCE through its multi-mission capability and Antarctic mission experience in January 2024. The entire Windracers team looks forward to growing partnership with NORCE and delivering their mission of creating a better understanding of the Antarctic."

Rune Storvold, Senior Vice President of Observing Systems at NORCE, commented on the decision to choose Windracers ULTRA, citing its proven success in Antarctic operations. "This is a part of a 200 million pound (GBP) upgrade with a new research station at Troll, renewable energy system and with eight science observatories and a drone service based on the Windracers ULTRA aircraft that allow us to carry a comprehensive optical and radar payload and cover the region from the nearby ocean to the Antarctic Plateau."

NORCE, with its extensive experience in polar operations, is integrating its sensor technology into platforms like Windracers ULTRA to monitor and analyze environmental conditions in real-time. The ULTRA aircraft, capable of carrying up to 100kg over a 1,000km range, will return to the Antarctic, following its 3,000 km, 25-flight mission with the British Antarctic Survey in early 2024.

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