Solar energy generation is growing rapidly. Cleaning the panels is essential, but current methods are water intensive. Using downwash to clean from above may reduce water and expense.
Seventy-eight countries are contaminated by land mines and unexploded ordnance. It kills or maims 15,000–20,000 people every year. It originates from wars and military training grounds.
The US Forest Service spent over $500m on aerial firefighting last year. Thirty-seven airmen died in firefighting accidents in the last decade. It is an essential service, but it can be done better.
Drones are useful for searching but not large enough for rescue. Helicopters are usually too large and their downwash at low altitude can make them extremely hazardous to work around.
Pipeline leaks can be devastating to the environment. Almost every country hosts them. Their combined length is equal to three times the distance to the moon. Continually monitoring their integrity is essential to the planet’s well-being.
Helicopters are increasingly being used to humanely manage and protect cattle, indigenous, and migratory animal populations. In fact, ranching is the third largest market for the light helicopter industry. Unfortunately their cost and complexity limit their use to only the largest ranches and government agencies.
