Solar Impulse 2 Is On the Tarmac! Taxiway Speed Test (VIDEO)

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 Originally published on 1Sun4All.

Solar Impulse 2 is on the tarmac and testing all systems in preparation for the first test flight, anticipated in the next few weeks. This week’s Insider video shows the crew testing the plane, landing gear, mechanical controls and generally monitoring the behavior of all systems at low-speed. I can’t wait to see the high-speed test that may come next. The wheels are still loaded — the “fast-feather-flying” has not reached into the sky, just yet. Stay tuned, we’ll bring you all the news about that exciting first flight.

Exciting Taxiway Speed Test of Solar Impulse 2 – First Flight Preparation

First Low Speed Taxi Test for Solar Impulse 2 in preparation of #FirstFlight.

With each of their great “firsts”, the explorers of the last century constantly pushed back the limits of the impossible. Today, the drive to make new discoveries must go on, with the aim of improving the quality of life on our planet. –BERTRAND PICCARD

Solar Impulse 2

Solar Impulse 2, 1st Outdoor Technical Tests, 2014.14.04 | © Solar Impulse | Revillard | Rezo.ch

After the Solar Impulse prototype’s 8 world records, when it became the first solar airplane ever to fly through the night, between two continents, and across the United States, it is time for Bertrand Piccard and André Borschberg to move on to the final phase of the adventure: the 2015 round-the-world flight, writes the Solar Impulse team.

What better way to demonstrate the importance of the pioneering, innovatory spirit than by achieving “impossible” things with renewable energy and highlighting new solutions for environmental problems?

The route: from the deserts of the Persian Gulf, dodging the unrelenting Indian monsoon, flying over the Burmese temples and the Great Wall of China, followed by two oceans crossings (with an American “dream” break in between), all to come back around to where it all began in the Persian Gulf.

A great historic first: for such an adventure, as for any premiere, there are no references. We were, and will be, faced with a number of challenges, leading us to push the limits of technological, human and piloting performance.

Support the First Round-The-World Solar Flight! Badge Up at Solar Impulse.


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Amber Archangel

-- I am an artist, painter, writer, interior designer, graphic designer, and constant student of many studies. Living with respect for the environment close at hand, the food chain, natural remedies for healing the earth, people and animals is a life-long expression and commitment. As half of a home-building team, I helped design and build harmonious, sustainable and net-zero homes that incorporate clean air systems, passive and active solar energy as well as rainwater collection systems. Private aviation stirs a special appeal, I would love to fly in the solar airplane and install a wind turbine in my yard. I am a peace-loving, courageous soul, and I am passionate about contributing to the clean energy revolution. I formerly designed and managed a clean energy website, 1Sun4All.com.

Amber Archangel has 195 posts and counting. See all posts by Amber Archangel