The Solar Impulse’s first night flight attempt has been postponed.
This morning at 06h45, the Solar Impulse Mission Team had to take the difficult decision to postpone the first night flight attempt.
The problem comes from the telemetry transmitter that has broken down. This system enables the ground team to follow in real time the flight mission and to monitor thousands of crucial parameters. With a prototype such as Solar Impulse currently in an experimental phase, this system is an essential component without which, the mission was not possible.
Due to this inoperative piece of equipment produced specifically for this prototype, they were unfortunately unable to replace it and subsequently had to postpone this first attempt.
The entire team is of course intensively working to find a solution, however at this particular time they are unable to announce another date for the next trial.
“The pilot and the aircraft’s security comes first!” explained Claude Nicollier, Head of Flight Testing of Solar Impulse. “Without this communication system, the mission becomes too risky.”
“Let’s not forget that this is an experimental project and these types of difficulties are inherent in this adventure.” reminds André Borschberg, CEO and Co-founder of Solar Impulse. “Every piece of the plane is optimized and we are continuously seeking the limits of the technology. This regrettable decision will serve as an important experience.”
“I succeeded the first nonstop around the world tour in an air balloon only after the third try! Patience and perseverance are essential values in this type of project” declares Bertrand Piccard, Chairman and Initiator of Solar Impulse.
A new attempt will be foreseen as soon as possible. In the meantime, the Solar Impulse blog will be regularly updated with information on next steps and developments.
Two men, both pioneers and innovators, both pilots, are the driving force behind Solar Impulse. Bertrand Piccard, psychatrist and aeronaut, who made the first non-stop round-the-world balloon flight, is the initiator and chairman. André Borschberg, an engineer and graduate in management science, a fighter pilot and a professional airplane and helicopter pilot, is the CEO. The former’s avant-gardist vision and the latter’s entrepreneurial and managerial experience are an ideal combination.
Watch this space to find out when the solar powered flight around the world will take place. For further information regarding solar powered flight have a look at Solar Powered Plane
Source: Solar Impulse
Editorial Director
