SOLAR POWERED FLIGHT

Solar plane prototype in first test flight
April 7, 2010 (BBC News)

"A prototype solar-powered plane has made its first full test flight - coming closer to the goal of using solar energy to fly around the world.

"The Solar Impulse, with a wingspan similar to that of a super-jumbo jet but weighing the same as a saloon car, took off from a Swiss airfield…The plane's wings are covered by solar cells which power four electric motors…Its designers hope a slightly larger production model will circumnavigate the globe in two years' time."

The Gossamer Penguin, designed by Dr. Paul McCready, became the first solar powered airplane to take off and fly on solar power carrying a human in 1979. (click to enlarge)

"The test flight was intended to verify that the plane's behaviour tallied with simulations…

"Round-the-world balloonist Bertrand Piccard is leading the project and intends to pilot the plane along with co-founder Andre Borschberg…Witnesses said both take-off and landing seemed to go smoothly."

The Solar Impulse prototype. (click to enlarge)

"The flight team have been conducting flea-hop tests since December, taking the plane no higher than 60cm (2ft) in altitude and 300m in distance…A night flight is planned later this year, and then a new plane will be built based on the results of those tests.

"The big take-off is planned for 2012, when the two pilots will try a transatlantic flight before attempting to circumnavigate the globe."