The world’s best-known manned solar airplane - Sunseeker- is headed across the ocean on a European tour and to possibly set another world record. This will be the first tour of Europe by a solar-powered manned aircraft. Solar Flight president, Eric Raymond, is set to pilot the plane.
The Sunseeker II, successor to the Sunseeker I, the first solar-powered aircraft to cross the United States, is scheduled to tour 8 countries; Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Hungary, Italy, France and Spain. Solar Flight, manufacturers of the Sunseeker I and II, will also be at the World Air Games 2009 in Torino, Italy (June 6-14) where the Sunseeker II will be on display.
The tour will be the longest journey for a Sunseeker solar aircraft since 1990 when its predecessor flew across the USA.
Sunseeker II features a unique teetering propeller that reduces vibration. In 2006, a new motor was constructed for the airplane that is twice as powerful as Sunseeker I's motor. The aircraft is fitted with more efficient solar cells and new lithium polymer batteries, contributing to the airplane’s higher performance.
The Sunseeker II has already logged more time in the air than all other manned solar powered airplanes combined. The European tour means more new records will be set by this pioneering company.
Visit: www.solar-flight.com
Via: EcoFriend.org
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