Nephelios is designed to be the first solar powered lighter than air dirigible airship. The French solar and helium-powered blimp, designed by various schools and universities, will use solar power from solar cells mounted on the upper balloon surface.
Nephelios will attempt to cross the English Channel 100 years after Louis Bleriot flew across in his self designed monoplane (on July 25th 1909). Bleriot made the crossing at an average speed of 64kph (40mph) and an altitude of 250ft (76 m).
The Nephelios also carries only one passenger, has a speed of 40kph (24.9mph), is 22m (72.2ft) long, 5.5m (18ft) in diameter and has a power output of 2.4kW from the solar cells with zero emissions. The helium filled balloon, with 250m3 internal volume, has a lift capability of 350kgs (772lbs) with 100kgs (221lbs) allocated to the pilot weight.
Visit: http://www.projetsolr.com/english/
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