Images: Bat plane to spy for U.S. Army

University of Michigan researchers plan to develop quantum dot solar cells to double the efficiency of the current model. They also plan to miniaturize its autonomous navigation system, and develop a smarter and lighter communications system than what is available with current technology.

The newly established University of Michigan Center for Objective Microelectronics and Biomimetic Advanced Technology, (Com-Bat) also involves the University of California at Berkeley and the University of New Mexico. It is one of four centers charged with building a different subsystem of the bat plane.

Photo by Eric Maslowski, research computer specialist, University of Michigan 3D Lab