Ellipse

About the Ellipse

The Explorer (1) Ellipse is a French-designed, two-seat light kitplane configured as a low-wing pusher monoplane with tandem seating. Manufactured in composite materials, it serves private aviators and is also marketed in a specialized surveillance configuration known as the Grand Duc.

Conceived initially as an academic engineering project, the design later evolved into a modular platform developed alongside industry partners for both civilian and military observation missions. Its pusher configuration and aerodynamic profile aim to deliver high cruising speeds and fuel efficiency, though its stall characteristics place it outside specific microlight or light-sport categories. The type has seen operational use for coastal monitoring with armed forces.