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Solar Impulse Completes Round-the-World Flight

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Solar Impulse Si2 successfully completed its historic round-the-world journey, flying 23,240 nautical miles over 17 legs without using any fuel, powered entirely by solar energy.
  • Led by co-founders and pilots André Borschberg and Bertrand Piccard, the ambitious 16-month endeavor proved the possibility of long-distance solar-powered aviation.
  • The project faced significant setbacks, including prolonged weather delays and battery damage, but the team adapted its strategy to overcome challenges and achieve its goal.
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More than 16 months after taking off from Abu Dhabi, the Solar Impulse Si2 has completed its trip around the globe, marking the successful conclusion of a journey many thought to be impossible. There were setbacks along the way, but the Solar Impulse team, led by pilots and Solar Impulse co-founders André Borschberg and Bertrand Piccard, brought the Si2 around the globe without using an ounce of fuel. The airplane’s four motors are run by solar power.

Pia Bergqvist

Pia Bergqvist joined FLYING in December 2010. A passionate aviator, Pia started flying in 1999 and quickly obtained her single- and multi-engine commercial, instrument and instructor ratings. After a decade of working in general aviation, Pia has accumulated almost 3,000 hours of flight time in nearly 40 different types of aircraft.

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