Great images of Sunseeker II Crossing the Alps
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In 1990 the solar powered airplane Sunseeker successfully flew across the USA, piloted by Eric Raymond. It used a small battery charged by solar cells on the wing to drive a propeller for takeoff, and then flew on direct solar power and took advantage of soaring conditions when possible. The Sunseeker II, built in 2002, was updated in 2005-2006 with a more powerful motor, larger wing, lithium battery packs and updated control electronics. As of Dec, 2008 it was the only manned solar powered airplane in flying condition and is operated regularly by Solar Flight. In 2009 it became the first solar-powered aircraft to cross the Alps, 99 years after the first crossing of the Alps by an aircraft (World Air Games Turin, won CIACA competition)
Comments
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im building me a plane, helecopter, plane, a hoverboard, rail grinding shoes, and a supercar
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nice
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dear santa.
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I didn't know about solar-powered motor-gliders until today. Looks awesome!!
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Wonderful! The Sunseeker II is an inspiring aircraft. I look forward to electric sport aircraft becoming commonplace and many charged or sustained by solar power.
3m 9sLenght