Raphael Domjan, a Swiss pilot, recently made history by breaking the altitude record for a solar-powered electric plane. The SolarStratos plane, which features 22 square meters of solar panels on its wings, soared to an impressive height of 9,521 meters. This significant accomplishment demonstrates the possibilities of harnessing solar energy for aviation and highlights the importance of sustainable practices in the aerospace industry.
The record-breaking flight took place at Sion airport in southwest Switzerland, where Domjan utilized warm air thermals to surpass the previous altitude record that had been standing for 15 years. The certified altitude record for a solar plane currently stands at 9,235 meters, making Domjan’s achievement a remarkable feat in the field of eco-friendly aviation.
Domjan, a 53-year-old “eco-explorer,” expressed his joy and gratitude for the team that had been preparing for this milestone for years. The flight lasted five hours and nine minutes, during which Domjan showcased the potential of solar power in aviation by reaching new heights in the SolarStratos plane.
The data from the flight will be submitted to the World Air Sports Federation governing body for validation of the new record. The SolarStratos team emphasized the importance of the pressure altitude corrected to standard density altitude as the official reference for aviation altitude records, ensuring the accuracy and credibility of Domjan’s achievement.
Capturing imaginations
Domjan’s ultimate goal is to become the first pilot to fly a solar-powered plane above 10,000 meters, equivalent to the altitude of commercial airliners. This ambitious target aims to push the boundaries of solar aviation and inspire future generations to embrace sustainable energy solutions in the aerospace industry.
If successful in surpassing the 10,000-meter mark, the SolarStratos team plans to embark on a manned solar-powered flight into the stratosphere, starting at around 12,000 meters at Switzerland’s latitude. This groundbreaking mission seeks to promote solar energy and environmental conservation through emblematic challenges that captivate the public’s imagination and highlight the potential of renewable energy sources.
The SolarStratos plane, registered as HB-SXA, features a front-mounted single propeller and is constructed with carbon fiber for optimal lightness and strength. With a length of 9.6 meters and a wingspan of 24.8 meters, the aircraft accommodates 22 square meters of high-spec solar panels on its wings, enabling efficient solar energy conversion and sustained flight at low speeds.
Capable of taking off at speeds as low as 50 kilometers per hour, the SolarStratos plane has a maximum speed of 140 kph and a cruising speed of approximately 80 kph. These specifications highlight the versatility and efficiency of solar-powered aviation in achieving sustainable and eco-friendly flights.
The dream of flight
Raphael Domjan, known for his pioneering spirit, previously made history by sailing around the world in a fully solar-powered boat in 2012. His dedication to showcasing the potential of solar energy in transportation reflects his commitment to inspiring future generations and promoting sustainable practices in the aviation industry.
Domjan emphasized the significance of demonstrating the capabilities of solar energy and its role in shaping a greener future for aviation. By breaking new ground in solar-powered flight, Domjan aims to inspire young and future generations to embrace renewable energy solutions and contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious world.
The recent altitude record set by Domjan marks a significant milestone in the journey towards achieving stratospheric flights using only solar power. The SolarStratos mission aligns with the goal of promoting solar energy and protecting the planet by showcasing innovative and sustainable solutions in aviation.
As Domjan continues his quest to push the boundaries of solar-powered flight, the aviation industry looks towards a future where renewable energy sources play a central role in shaping a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach to air travel.
