Blog

What is the difference between CUAV SKYE and CUAV SKYE 2?

Introduction: SKYE vs SKYE 2

It was around two years ago that CUAV introduced SKYE heated pitot airspeed sensor at the Shenzhen UAS/UAV 2022 expo. After two years, they have introduced the second generation of it, SKYE 2 with some improvements and upgrades. Please read the rest of this article if you want to know what is the difference between CUAV SKYE and CUAV SKYE 2.

Table of Contents

CUAV SKYE Heated Pitot Tube Airspeed Sensor for Pixhawk

The first version, CUAV SKYE, was one of the first airspeed sensors with a heated pitot tube developed for Pixhawk autopilot systems. It came with a dual temperature control system for both the pitot and the sensor, and was equipped with intelligent deicing technology. An airspeed sensor, temperature sensor, and a humidity sensor are all integrated into one compact design. 

CUAV SKYE used an MS5525 airspeed sensor and had a 32W heating system, with automatic heat control with ambient temperature and humidity. This results in avoiding data errors which can be caused by pitot tube freezing or rain blocking. Temperature control type is a resistance heating mechanism. It has a built-in STM32F4 processor, and supports DroneCAN Protocol for easy integration into PX4 and Ardupilot systems.

Built-in drainage holes are provided to make sure the ain water will not make any trouble for the normal operation of the sensor. With the IP44 protection class and automatic drainage design, it can be used in harsh conditions. 

There were some reports of malfunctioning of the first generation of the SKYE sensor. One user reported in Ardupilot forums that after turning it on for a few times, the pitot melted and burned. 

Skye damaged - motionew - 1
Skye damaged2 - motionew - 2

CUAV SKYE 2 Heated Pitot Tube Airspeed Sensor for Pixhawk -- Second Generation

The CUAV SKYE 2 is the second generation, which is renewed and upgraded. It has lower wind resistance, tighter structural connection, and IP54 protection performance. It has a more precise temperature control, with a new M4C intelligent heating strategy, making the UAV flight in low-temperature environments possible. This model uses a SM5391 airspeed sensor. The heating system is upgraded to 35W. It is a little larger and heavier than the first-generation model. 

CUAV SKYE 2 has low-temperature drift and high vibration resistance to ensure flight safety, which makes it a good fit for Hybrid VTOLs or VTOLs powered using fuel engines which have a much higher vibration. 

Please take a look at the comparison table between the two sensors to learn more what is the difference between CUAV SKYE and CUAV SKYE 2.

SpecificationCUAV SKYECUAV SKYE 2
SensorMS5525SM5391
Airspeed measurement range±500km/h0~380km/h
heating power32W35W
Temperature measurement range-15°C~150°C-20~125°C
DC IN12~36V18~68v
Accuracy
±2.5%FS±1% FS
Weight22g26.1g
Dimensions82.5×30.4×28.2mm102 x 28.2 x 30.5 mm