Undefined Technologies has created a prototype of propellerless, ion-powered drone

Undefined Technologies has developed a prototype drone that is completely propellerless. The drone rises into the air by means of ion thrust.

Here's What We Know

The drone is called the Silent Ventus. According to the manufacturer, as part of the test it was able to stay in the air for 4 minutes and 30 seconds. Such solutions will be convenient in the conditions of the city, because during the flight they do not create noise in contrast to traditional quadcopters.

The Silent Ventus had a noise level of 75 dB during the test. Undefined Technologies is now working to reduce the 70 dB and increase the flight time to 15 minutes. The startup wants to implement it by the end of 2023.

Undefined Technologies presented its development in 2022. But at that time, the flying vehicle was able to stay in the air for less than 30 seconds in laboratory conditions, generating noise at the level of 90 dB. Such engines create thrust by ionizing oxygen and nitrogen atoms with an electromagnetic field, which makes them [the atoms] move in the same direction.

In 2024 Undefined Technologies wants to announce a commercial version of the Silent Ventus drone. It will be able to deliver goods over short distances with a 15-minute flight time.

Source: New Atlas