Solar Airplane Prepares for an Around the World Flight

Always in search of ways to prove the potential of green technology, scientist and inventors stretch their imaginations to develop products and alter existing technology. This fall, Bertrand Piccard, grandson of Auguste Piccard, the inventor of the pressurized cabin, and his team will begin testing a prototype solar airplane they have in development. The ultimate goal is an around the world flight without burning a single ounce of fuel. Originally started in 2003, Piccard's team believes they are on track to meet a 2011 takeoff date for their around the world flight. I guess you can liken the activities of Piccard's team to that of the Wright Brothers. Challenging all the norms of what is possible base upon what is currently available, they are charging forward to make the impossible possible.

There have been numerous design changes and technological advances since the projects inception which has the team confident they will achieve their goal. The Solar Impulse, the name dubbed the solar airplane, will be powered by 4 wing mounted ten horse powered motors. These customized lightweight engines replace the original concept of 2 larger rear mounted engines. The solar energy will be channeled to the motors and their battery backup through the 12,000 photovoltaic cells mounted on the wings. The fuselage and wings will be constructed of a light carbon fiber, streamline designed to counter turbulence and reduce stress on the plane.

With a cruise speed of 45 miles per, it is estimated it will take the Solar Impulse three weeks to complete its around the world journey which will include a few promotional stop along the way. Heading eastward around the equator for maximum sun exposure, the plane will leave its base at dawn and climb to a height of 39,000 feet under it own stored energy power. It will meet the sunrise during its ascent and use the sun's power to recharge the energy it expended. Upon achieving its maximum altitude of 39,000 feet, the Solar Impulse will begin its gradual decent to 10,000 feet during the night hours to conserve energy and prepare to meet the next rising sun. If an emergency should occur and the solar plane lost all power, its aerodynamic design will enable it to remain airborne and land like a glider.

An airplane powered by renewable energy that circumvents the globe will truly spark interest and investment in green technology world wide. Even the staunches critics of conservation and the most energy hungry human activists will have to take notice. We will be keeping an eye on Piccard and his team and reporting back on the flight of the Solar Impulse.

Resource: Racing The Sun, Popular Science - June 2009

Tags: Solar power, solar technology, solar powered airplane, Solar Impulse, Bertrand Piccard