Aeroprobe multi-function Air Data Probes
Lightweight air data probes for accurate airspeed, angle of attack and sideslip measurements
Key features
- Measures airspeed, altitude, angle of attack and sideslip with a compatible μADC
- Flow-angle accuracy better than ±1° and airspeed accuracy better than ±1% or ±1 m/s
- Lightweight stainless steel design with no moving parts and optional anti-icing heater
Multi-function Air Data Probes for UAVs and aircraft
Aeroprobe Multi-function Air Data Probes provide accurate aerodynamic pressure measurements for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), experimental aircraft and flight testing applications. Combined with a compatible Micro Air Data Computer (μADC), these probes provide real-time information about airspeed, altitude, angle of attack (AoA) and angle of sideslip (AoS).
Unlike conventional air data booms with mechanical pitch and yaw vanes, Aeroprobe's multi-function probes determine the airflow direction without moving parts. This reduces mechanical complexity, weight and response delays associated with moving vanes.
The probes feature five pressure ports at the tip and a static pressure ring. Their compact design makes them suitable for aircraft where installation space, weight and aerodynamic interference must be kept to a minimum.
Available probe configurations
Straight air data probes
Straight probes position the measurement tip directly in the airflow. They are suitable for installations where the probe can be aligned with the incoming flow, including flight test booms and wind tunnel applications.
L-shaped air data probes
L-shaped probes use a curved geometry to position the measurement tip away from the mounting shaft. This helps reduce airflow obstruction downstream of the probe and provides additional installation flexibility.
Strut-mounted air data probes
Strut-mounted probes are designed for integration into aircraft structures. Their aerodynamic mounting configuration helps reduce drag and flow interference while providing a practical installation solution for UAVs and aircraft.
Designed for demanding flight applications
Aeroprobe Multi-function Air Data Probes are manufactured from stainless steel and are available with optional features for specific operating conditions.
An internal heater can provide icing protection, while an optional integrated Total Air Temperature (TAT) sensor enables additional temperature measurement.
The standard measurement configuration supports angle of attack and sideslip measurements up to ±20°. Extended-angle configurations are available for applications requiring measurements up to ±40°, subject to the selected probe and compatible air data computer.
Applications
Aeroprobe Multi-function Air Data Probes are suitable for UAV development, experimental aircraft, flight testing, aerodynamic research and flight control system integration.
Their compact design and ability to measure multiple flight parameters make them particularly useful where conventional air data booms are too large or heavy.
Selecting the right Aeroprobe air data probe
The appropriate probe configuration depends on the aircraft geometry, expected airspeed, angle-of-attack range, environmental conditions and installation requirements.
Althen Sensors & Controls helps engineers select a suitable probe geometry and compatible Micro Air Data Computer for their application. Please contact Althen to discuss your flight measurement requirements.
Do you need this sensor for your next project?
Request a no-obligation quote or send us your contact details for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our sales engineers will then contact you within a maximum of 1 to 2 working days.
Talk to our experts
Not exactly what you are looking for? We offer standard sensors, but can also help you with sensors adapted for you or a fully customised measurement solution. Contact us for advice or pricing.
Talk to an expertTechnical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Product type | Multi-function Air Data Probe |
| Measurement principle | Multi-port aerodynamic pressure measurement |
| Measurement outputs* | Airspeed, altitude, AoA and AoS |
| Flow-angle accuracy | Error less than ±1° |
| Airspeed accuracy | Error less than ±1% or ±1 m/s |
| Standard angle range | Up to ±20° AoA and AoS |
| Extended angle range | Up to ±40° AoA and AoS, optional |
| Minimum mass | From 15 g |
| Probe geometries | Straight, L-shaped, strut-mounted |
| Pressure ports | Five tip ports and static pressure ring |
| Construction | Stainless steel |
| Anti-icing heater | Optional: 12 V / 18 W, 15 V / 23 W or 28 V / 42 W |
| Temperature measurement | Optional integrated TAT sensor |
| Compatible electronics | Selected Aeroprobe Micro Air Data Computers |