Solar Impulse to Hit the Skies in 2011
The Solar Impulse, first unveiled in May, has plans to fly around the world in 2011. Think leisurely as the Swiss made plane travels at an average speed of 43.5 mph at a max altitude of 39,300 feet. It has a 262.5 ft. wingspan and its pilot, Bertrand Piccard (you read that right,) will wear a symbiotic suit. It allows him to sleep whenever needed and if there is a problem during the flight, will wake him up.
The cells on the wing will conserve power for 7 - 8 hours a day and the plan is that batteries will power the Impulse at night. Because that technology is not yet available, a test flight is planned for this year with a smaller prototype. Check out their site and be amazed, truly amazed.
Via Solar Impulse
Read More in: Solar Stuff
Share this Article with others:
Related Articles:
Came straight to this page? Visit Solar Snob for all the latest news.
Posted by Sheila Franklin at July 14, 2009 8:46 PM
Mailing List
Subscribe - RSS
