Todos
← Back to Squawk list
Swiss pilot plans to fly solar airplane to the edge of space
It might sound like the stuff of science fiction, but a Swiss pilot is preparing to fly to the edge of space in a solar-powered aircraft. According to Wired, Raphël Domjan is planning to fly his plane, SolarStratos, higher than any plane has gone before. His goal is to prove that renewable energy is not only equal to, but potentially greater than fossil fuels. (Video) (inhabitat.com) Más...
Sort type: [Top] [Newest]
Here is a thought: how about designing the plane with a jettisonable (with a parachute of course) supplemental battery pack? Power the plane using the supplemental battery for take-off and the initial climb, and when it is depleted get rid of it to save weight.
The report says the pilot needs to lose 20 pounds and gain $5,000,000. How much will the pressure suit and oxygen supply weigh? It certainly will cost less to operate than other aircraft that flew at that altitude. Say, for example, the SR-71.
