Bertrand Piccard, a pioneer in aviation known for his Solar Impulse project, is leading a new challenge with the development of Climate Impulse, a two-seater aircraft powered by green hydrogen.
This groundbreaking project aims to travel 40,000 kilometers around the world non-stop, using technology based on supercooled liquid hydrogen, which only emits water vapor as a byproduct.
A Bold Project
- Green hydrogen: Produced through electrolysis with renewable electricity, green hydrogen will fuel the aircraft, marking a milestone in the sustainability of air transport.
- Initial tests: The first flights are planned for 2024, while the ambitious global journey is scheduled for 2028. The aircraft’s design includes lightweight composite materials, a wingspan of 34 meters, a speed of 180 km/h, and the capacity to fly without refueling.
Technological Innovations
The aircraft relies on innovative systems such as ultra-insulated tanks to store liquid hydrogen at -253°C, and fuel cells that convert this hydrogen into energy.
However, these technologies still face technical challenges, such as hydrogen flow regulation and the construction of a safe and airtight tank.
Advancements and Preparations
Over the past year, the team has progressed with the cabin design, which includes swivel seats and systems to enhance the pilots’ blood circulation.
The upcoming tests will focus on evaluating the fuel cells, propulsion systems, and electric motor efficiency.
Is hydrogen the future of aviation?
Despite its potential, experts warn that commercial flights powered by green hydrogen could be decades away. While hydrogen is known as a rocket fuel, transitioning to its use in commercial aircraft requires overcoming significant technological and economic challenges. For now, fossil fuels continue to dominate due to their lower cost and higher efficiency.
Piccard remains optimistic, viewing Climate Impulse as an inspiration for the aviation sector. “We have to demonstrate that it is possible,” he stated in an interview with the Associated Press, emphasizing that projects like this are essential to motivate changes in the industry.
Cover photo: AP
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