Solar Impulse at a glance
Solar Impulse, the first airplane designed to fly on solar power, without any fuel or emissions.
The goal for Solar Impulse is to fly around the world tour in a zero fuel aircraft capable of flying night and day on solar energy. In 2013, the airplane will make its first solar-powered flight around the world.
Solar Impulse is above all a symbol, demonstrating the power of mankind's collective ingenuity and what's possible when we apply our innovative and technical talents toward achieving the impossible. It also provides hope for meeting the sustainable challenges of today with renewable energy.
On July 7
th 2010, Solar Impulse made its first day and night flight, staying airborne 26 hours, powered solely by the sun.
Solar Impulse main characteristics
| wingspan |
63.40 m |
| length |
21.85 m |
| height |
6.40 m |
| engines |
4 x 10 HP |
| solar cells |
11.628 |
| average flying speed |
70 km/h |
| maximum altitude |
8.500 m |
| weight |
1.600 kg |
| take-off-speed |
35 km/h |
Timeline
 |
End 2003
2005-2008
2009
2010
2011
2013 |
Launch of the project, after feasibility study by EPFL
Concept, design and construction of the Prototype HB-SIA
Presentation of the HB-SIA prototype and test flights
First 26-hour flight (night flight) of the prototype (July 07-08, 2010)
Construction of the record plane HB-SIB
From 2013, several days missions intercontinental flights and Round-the-world flight with stopovers
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