PTERA takes off on a flight to test the ability of shape memory alloy to fold wings in-flight. NASA, in this flight, observed the successful folding of PTERA’s wings 70 degrees upward.

The objectives of testing on PTERA include the development of tools and vetting of system integration, evaluation of vehicle control law, and analysis of SAW airworthiness to examine benefits to in-flight efficiency.

PTERA takes off from the Rogers Dry Lakebed on a flight to test the ability of an innovative, lightweight material, called shape memory alloy, to fold the outer portion of an aircraft’s wings in flight.

PTERA flies with the outer portion of its wings folded 70 degrees downward. The wings were able to fold in-flight thanks to a shape memory alloy material, which is triggered thermally and used in an actuator to move parts of the wing.