Giving innovation wings

In July 2016, Solar Impulse completed the first solar-powered flight around the world in a single-seater, fixed-wing aircraft. It was equipped with 17,000 Sunpower-Maxeon PV cells and a novel electric propulsion system. The 42,000 kilometer adventure has created a desire to promote cleaner technologies, reports Valerie Thompson.

Issue 11 – 2023 | Tipping point

Project leader and pilot Bertrand Piccard soars above the Pacific Ocean in a solar-powered aircraft.

Photo: Solar Impulse Foundation

Stay informed

pv magazine is the leading trade media platform covering the global solar photovoltaics industry. Log in or purchase a digital or print version of this issue to read this article in full.
Purchase a Subscription
Lost Password?