[Formula: see text] footprint minimization of solar-powered HALE using MDO and eco-material selection.

Multidisciplinary Design Optimization (MDO) enables one to reach a better solution than by optimizing each discipline independently. In particular, the optimal structure of a drone varies depending on the selected material. The [Formula: see text] footprint of a solar-powered High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) drone is optimized here, where the structural materials used is one of the design variables.