Sunseeker Duo
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| Sunseeker Duo | |
|---|---|
| General information | |
| Type | Electric Aircraft |
| National origin | Italy |
| Designer | |
| Number built | 1 |
| History | |
| First flight | 17 December 2013 |
The Sunseeker Duo is a twin seat all-electric solar-recharged powered aircraft. Designed by Eric Scott Raymond, the plane can take off and achieve enough height for the motor to be switched off and follow thermals like a glider (sailplane), allowing the batteries to be recharged through the solar cells on the wings.[1] Still in testing phase, the company, Solar Flight, does not provide information on the range.
The Sunseeker Duo is a high aspect ratio side-by-side seat composite construction high-wing aircraft with a T-tail arrangement with a single electric motor mounted in the tailfin (vertical stabilizer) driving a forward mounted propeller. The first all-solar power generated flight was performed near Milan, Italy with company owners Eric Scott Raymond and Irena Raymond. 1510 solar cells capable of generating up to 5 kilowatts power the motor and battery pack.[2][3]
Specifications (Sunseeker Duo)
Data from Sport Aviation, Solar Flight Inc.
General characteristics
- Crew: 2
- Capacity: 2 passengers
- Wingspan: 22 m (72 ft)
- Empty weight: 290 kg (639.341 lb)
- Max takeoff weight: 470 kg (1,036 lb)
Performance
- Stall speed: 45 km/h (28 mph, 24 kn)
- Never exceed speed: 160 km/h (100 mph, 87 kn)
- Endurance: Varies with solar conditions – designed for 12 hrs
- Service ceiling: 3,700 m (12,000 ft)
- Maximum glide ratio: 1:38