Retro Find: Solar-Powered Plane of the Future?
The sky’s the limit when it comes to solar power.
The sky’s the limit when it comes to solar power.
The sky’s the limit when it comes to solar power.
When rudimentary solar power was created in the 19th century, the scientists behind the technology had no idea what it would be used for.
In 2013, venture capitalists and environmentalists Bertrand Piccard and André Borschberg built a solar-powered plane to show the world it’s possible to fly using clean energy. The Solar Impulse had built-in solar panels covering the almost 60-meter-long wingspan. It could absorb energy while flying, even allowing the plane to fly at night.
While in the United States, Piccard and Borschberg flew the solar-paneled plane across the United States in just over 100 hours. While on this journey, the Solar Impulse broke a few world records for solar-powered flight.
Watch the video above to learn more about the Solar Impulse and how it was powered using renewable energy.
If you’re looking for more archival clips, check out the videos below.
RETRO FIND: Tractor square dancing is surprisingly graceful
Tractors aren’t typically associated with the do-si-do, but this small Iowa community changed that. Watch as these farmers square danced using their more notorious tool — the tractor.
Spud-tacular train wreck: Potatoes mashed, baked after train derailment in ‘95
You’ve never seen a train wreck like this! Potatoes were mashed, smashed and baked after train derailment.
RETRO FIND: Man speeds over ice in sailboat
Ice skating, ice fishing, ice… boating? Check out the video to find what may be your next winter hobby.