Abstract: An airship retrieval system comprises a plurality of aerodynamic pods releasably mounted in suitable locations about the external surface of the airship. Within the pod is a handling or a tether line that is attached at one end to the airship and at the other end to the pod. When a suitable control signal is sent to the pod, the pod is released and the handling line and pod falls toward the ground to enable retrieval of the airship.

Abstract: An airship with a lifting gas cell system comprises an airship that contains a plurality of partitions and a plurality of diaphragms, wherein the partitions and diaphragms are configured to form a number of gas cells that contain a lifting gas such as helium, and a single air cell that contains air. As a result, during the ascent and descent of the airship the number of gas cells ensures that the lifting gas is uniformly distributed over the entire length of the airship, whereas the air cell allows a large amount of air to be retained during a descent.

Abstract: A propulsion assembly for attachment to the enclosing material of an airship which includes a base which is positioned proximate to the enclosing material. An extension member having opposed ends projects away from the base and includes opposed ends. A motor assembly is attached to the end of the extension member opposed to the base. A mounting assembly is attached to the enclosing material and a plurality of pre-tensioned guy cables connect the mounting assembly to the extension member.