SOLAR PLANE FLIES THROUGH THE NIGHT
09 Jul 2010
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AT just after 0900 GMT this morning, the Swiss Solar Impulse solar powered aircraft successfully touched down after its first night flight.
The ecstatic and exuberant organisers said:
"The deal is done, we've won, we've won! HB-SIA and pilot André Borschberg are back from the night skies. It took a lot of persuading to keep the Solar Impulse staff, media people and fascinated citizens from rushing the airplane here at the Payerne airfield. The plane is now being secured, and then let the good times roll, baby!
"Thanks to all of you out there for all your support, your pertinent questions, your displays of emotion and dedication to the project. You don't know how good it feels to know that so much of the world is with us. From Auckland to Shanghai the long way round, you've all been great.
"I'm now off to kiss the airplane for you - André might be a bit bushy by now, but I'll certainly hug him hard. You all go off and pick a sunflower, plant it in your yard, and keep the spirit alive.
"Till the next, fabulous step toward a greener, more sustainable world."
FAST FACTS
Wingspan: 63.40m
Length: 21.85m
Height: 6.40m
Weight: 1600kg
Motor power: 4 x 10hp electric engines
Solar cells: 11,628 (10,748 on the wing, 880 on the horizontal stabiliser) Average flying speed: 70km/h
Take-off speed: 35km/h
Maximum altitude: 8500m (27,900ft)
More at: www.solarimpulse.com
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