Thales and DGAC operate the world’s first solar-powered Air Traffic Control radar station in Calama, Chile
Chile’s General Directorate of Civil Aeronautics (DGAC), in partnership with Thales, a global technology leader, has achieved a remarkable milestone in the aviation industry. Operating the world’s first air traffic control radar station powered entirely by solar energy, this groundbreaking initiative underscores Chile’s commitment to sustainability and enhances air traffic surveillance in the country’s northern regions.
Solar-Powered Radar Ensures Uninterrupted Air Traffic Surveillance
Air safety remains paramount in aviation, necessitating continuous monitoring of aircraft positions. Thales, in collaboration with DGAC, has developed an advanced radar system comprising the STAR NG primary radar and RSM secondary radar. This innovative technology enables comprehensive surveillance of both civil and military air traffic, including helicopters, commercial planes, and jets, thereby enhancing safety and reliability in Chilean airspace.
Harnessing Solar Energy in the Atacama Desert
Situated in the Atacama Desert at an altitude exceeding 3,500 meters, the solar-powered radar station leverages the region’s abundant solar incidence. Equipped with 340 strategically positioned solar panels, the station boasts a maximum daily generation capacity of approximately 960 kWh, covering an expansive area of 10,000 m2. This sustainable energy solution ensures uninterrupted radar operation, even in remote and challenging environments.
Thales’ Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation
Thales’ collaboration with DGAC exemplifies its dedication to sustainable technology solutions. Beyond solar panels, the radar system incorporates efficient energy utilization, advanced battery storage, and backup generator technology. These features guarantee the station’s operational resilience and underscore Thales’ role as a strategic partner in delivering environmentally conscious innovations.
“For DGAC, at a strategic level, this new air traffic control radar station is undoubtedly a great contribution to air safety in the north of the country where there is currently a high air traffic density that will be fully covered by this new system, given its measurement range, which is the highest in the market at 100 nautical miles in the case of the primary radar and 250 nautical miles in the case of the secondary radar. The environment benefits are also outstanding and unique, limiting its impact on climate change by being 100% powered by solar energy which is consistent with the Chilean policies and the ones adopted by ICAO, in line with the concept that all nations should spare no effort to mitigate and reduce the environmental impact so that the next generations and our planet have a more sustainable future.” Juan Alegría, SystemsDirector DGAC
”This project delivery is a milestone in the civil aviation industry and a commitment to sustainability. This is not only a technological achievement for DGAC and Thales, but also an example of environmental responsibility, demonstrating Thales’ commitment and capability to create sustainable solutions in-line with customer sustainable requirements and global objectives of preserving the environment. It is an example of a project contributing to low carbon future, and contributes to the IATA to Fly Net Zero by 2050 commitment. It demonstrates how Thales advanced technologies are helping to make the world safer and more environmentally responsible”. Lionel de Castellane, VP Civil radars segment, Thales
Thales Pioneers Sustainable Air Surveillance Solutions
With over 1,100 air traffic radars deployed worldwide, Thales is a recognized leader in air surveillance technology. The successful implementation of the solar-powered radar station in Chile reaffirms Thales’ commitment to innovation and sustainability. As the aviation industry continues to prioritize environmental stewardship, partnerships like the one between DGAC and Thales serve as beacons of progress towards a greener and safer future for air travel.
