Arielle Design

Description

After successfully crossing the United States in Sunseeker I, a long series of modifications and refinements led to an almost entirely new airplane. In 2002 a new wing was constructed with a different plan form, more surface area for solar cell coverage, and a new technique for integrating the latest generation of solar cells into the actual wing structure rather than bonding them to the surface. The new aircraft features a unique teetering propeller, which drastically reduces vibration. In 2006, a new motor was constructed for the airplane that is twice as powerful as Sunseeker I's motor. An improved tail was fitted to the aircraft in addition to a new set of control electronics designed by Alan Cocconi for the batteries and solar arrays. The new electronics greatly increase the system's efficiency. As a final touch, the new aircraft is fitted with four packs of advanced lithium polymer batteries, which find their home in the wings of the airplane. Today Sunseeker II has logged more time in the air than all other manned solar powered airplanes combined. It continues to raise the bar for solar powered aircraft and inspire the world to think seriously about the beautiful future that we can look forward to if we take bold steps today. Lithium battery systems support from Air Energy , builder of the Silent electric motorglider.

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