02.06.14

Solar Impulse 2 – First Test Flight

The twenty second takeoff is incredible and clearly shows the level of design which the plane has been subject to during its development. Solar Impulse is a marvel of engineering and vision (See BBC News Coverage for more)

The footage below is in real time, the electric engines power up and after a short moment (~18 secs) where the tail elervates the plane entirely leaves the runway.

Solar Impulse 2 almost seems to hover as it gracefully embarks upon it’s maiden flight. This plane (and it’s predecessor – Solar Impulse) represent an image of the future which is independent of fossil fuels.

Watch the Official Video

The inspiring story of Bertrand Piccard is similar to the message from John Luc Picard’s message from Star Trek the Next Generation : “To Boldly go where no one has gone before”. The mission of Solar Impulse is not so different than the Starship Enterprise, pushing the boundaries of human development.