Condor performed history’s first fully automated flight in 1989. The Condor was a revolutionary, all-bonded composite aircraft built for remote-controlled, high-altitude, long-endurance missions. The single model was developed as a technology demonstrator-and was extremely successful in merging the latest advances in aerodynamics, propulsion, composite materials, and remote controls. The Condor set several records for piston-powered aircraft during its 141-hour flight test program in 1988 and 1989. It stayed aloft for nearly two and one-half days during one test flight and reached a top altitude of 67,028 feet. The flights proved a Condor-like vehicle could be used for both military and commercial purposes. Possible military applications include reconnaissance, surveillance, and communication relay. Potential civilian uses include weather monitoring and atmospheric research.