Solar-Powered Airship Seeks To Circle The Globe Without Ever Touching Down

The Solar Airship One, a creation by Euro Airship, is embarking on an odyssey of innovation with an aim to reshape the landscape of eco-friendly travel. This groundbreaking venture seeks to encircle the globe without ever setting foot on the ground, harnessing the boundless potential of solar and hydrogen power.

This ambitious venture aims to circumnavigate the globe without ever touching the ground, relying solely on solar and hydrogen power. Such a feat promises to deliver a remarkable 80% reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to traditional aircraft.

The Solar Airship One’s mission is to undertake an equatorial journey around the world, covering a staggering 21,598 nautical miles within the span of 20 to 30 days. It will maintain an average altitude of 19,685 feet, boasting a reinforced envelope with a double layer that serves both stability and temperature regulation.

An impressive 15 gas envelopes, individually managed by sophisticated software, ensure maneuverability in diverse atmospheric conditions. Notably, incorporating solar film into the upper half of the envelope opens the door to perpetual flight, as it constantly recharges the airship’s batteries. Hydrogen fuel cells take the reins during nighttime journeys, powering the electric engines.

Beyond its pioneering technology, Euro Airship carries a broader vision: to educate and advocate for green mobility amid the ongoing climate change and sustainability discourse within the aviation industry.

The French company has enlisted the logistics team behind Bertrand Piccard’s global balloon voyage. Also in the crew will be Dorine Bourneton, Euro Airship crew and French aerobatic pilot, and former astronaut Michel Tognini will pilot the Airship for its circumnavigation.

Euro Airship will commence Solar Airship One’s construction in 2024, with final assembly slated for the following year. In 2026, post-experimental certification, their daring journey begins.

This innovative design is more than a one-time venture. Euro Airship aspires to obtain full-type certification, partnering with Capgemini Engineering for design and manufacturing. Euro Airship also envisions applications in ecotourism and military surveillance, offering autonomous flights at high altitudes.

[via Robb Report and StupidDOPE, screenshots via Euro Airship]