Naked Science Season 7 Episode 13 Solar-Powered Flight
- January 13, 2011
Naked Science season 7 episode 13, titled "Solar-Powered Flight," delves into the cutting-edge technology behind creating solar-powered aircraft. The episode explores the history of solar flight, from the first unmanned solar flight in the 1970s to the development of the first manned solar plane, Solar Impulse.
Viewers are taken on a journey to Switzerland, where the Solar Impulse team is working on their latest solar plane, Solar Impulse 2. The team explains how they have improved the design of the plane since their first flight in 2013, incorporating lessons learned from that experience into the new model.
The episode also features other solar-powered planes, including the NASA Helios, which was able to fly to an altitude of almost 100,000 feet, and the Sunseeker, a small plane designed for personal use. The Sunseeker's designer, Eric Raymond, explains the benefits of flying a solar-powered plane, including its low environmental impact and potential cost savings.
Viewers learn about the various challenges faced by solar-powered planes, including limited battery storage and the need for efficient solar cells. The episode also explores the mission of the Solar Impulse team: to promote renewable energy and demonstrate its capabilities to the world.
The episode features interviews with experts in the field of solar flight, including Solar Impulse co-founders Bertrand Piccard and André Borschberg, as well as solar cell expert Bernard Kress. The experts discuss their visions for the future of solar flight and the potential impact it could have on the aviation industry and the world at large.
Overall, Naked Science season 7 episode 13 offers an in-depth look at the fascinating world of solar-powered flight. By showcasing a variety of solar planes and the people behind them, the episode leaves viewers with a sense of awe and inspiration for the future of alternative energy.
