Friday 13 May 2011

Solar power plane takes world’s first international flight

The world's first international flight powered by solar energy took off today.

A specially designed aircraft, called the Solar Impulse, left the Payerne airfield in Switzerland this morning, and is expected to touch down in Brussels this evening after a 12 hour flight.

According to the Solar Impulse website, a team has been working "flat-out" on the plans for today's flight for several months, liaising with aviation authorities and specialists to pick the best time for favourable weather conditions.

Viewers can watch it on a live video feed at www.solarimpulse.com