Blimp set for first solar-powered Channel crossing
From Kent News: “This unusual looking aircraft is set to be the first solar-powered airship to cross the English Channel from France to Kent. Forward thrust is provided by two large propellers, while lift is taken care of by the massive helium filled tube. And it will get all its power directly and exclusively by the sun. Rays will be captured by a spine of flexible solar panels running down the middle of the balloon.”
It has been called Nephelios by the French engineering students putting the ambitious project together. Test flights are due to start soon, and it’s hoped the aircraft will make the hour-long 2-mile trip across the Channel by the end of the summer – with a man on board.” Blimp set for first solar-powered Channel crossing
