Chinese researchers have revealed a new technology that could soon enable drones to charge mid-flight using high-powered lasers. Wirelessly charging dronesThe receiver is what's known as a perovskite laser cell-thermoelectric (PLC-TE) tandem device optimized to turn laser light into electricity. Following initial testing using a model, scientsts plan to wirelessly charge a real drone mid-flight. The researchers specifically identified reconnaissance, logistics, and disaster relief as key areas where drones powered by lasers could one day be used. Article Sources Matter & Light, Han et al., “Sb2Se3 nanocrystals enable efficient perovskite-thermoelectric tandem devices for laser-powered unmanned aerial vehicles” DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.matlit.2026.100066