We all know what Solar energy is! Nothing but the heat emitted by the Sun, which is harnessed using a range of ever-evolving technologies. Also, it’s an important source of renewable energy. All of this can happen because of the large magnitude of solar energy available from the Sun. We have come across many things that run on solar power like solar cookers, for heating our homes, power pumps, lighting and what not!
There’s a plane which is powered by the Sun’s rays. It doesn’t need fuel.
It landed in Hawaii on Friday after it journeyed across the Pacific Ocean from Japan. The pilot Andre Borschberg, broke the record for world’s longest non-stop flight (120-hour). He landed at Kalaeloa, a small airport outside Honolulu. His co-pilot Bertrand Piccard, has accompanied him and they are taking turns to fly this airplane which started from Abu Dhabi in March. They plan to head to Phoenix and then New York. Yoga is what that keeps the pilot on heels. “Yoga is a huge support for this flight above the Pacific: it positively affects my mood and mindset,” Andre tweeted.
The plane’s wings are equipped with 17,000 solar cells that help in charging its batteries.
Since it runs without fuel, its wings are equipped with these many cells, which can store huge amount of energy and therefore, help the plane to fly at night.
Ideal flight speed – 28 mph
Weight – 5,000 pounds
Check out this video, uploaded by Solar Impulse to witness its journey.
This is really amazing!! harnessing the Sun’s energy to fly a plane. Think of the amount of fuel saved!