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What's the real limit for solar powered aircraft?

All Solar PV technologies suffer from the same problem: a lack of efficiency. Significant improvements are going to be required (around 100% to 200% above current 'best of') for this to become a mainstream power source. Battery technology also needs a step-change in capacity vs. weight. However, before we are too critical, bear in mind the enormous amount of development that has gone into Internal Combustion and Jet Turbine technologies! (They were pretty basic when they were first developed.) Like Trevor Best, I am a bit concerned about the headlong rush to be 'seen to be green' by motor manufacturers. At present, we might be best sticking to hybrid systems - even if only until charging facilities are more widely available.

8 Jun 2012

2:40 pm