You might think solar energy with its infinite potential has become second nature, woven seamlessly into our habits, political decisions and new developments. Yet the reactions and comments on our social media remind us there is still work to be done! There are still sceptics who question the purpose of the challenges our electric solar aircraft takes on. This is exactly why our mission remains so important. Each flight by HB-SXA \u2013 like those in June preparing for this summer\u2019s 10,000m flight over the Swiss Alps \u2013 is another symbolic step forward. Fulfilling the dream of Icarus: flying ever higher, without burning fossil fuels \u2013 or our wings. A powerful statement that a decarbonised future is already in motion. We invite you to join us for what promises to be an exhilarating summer!<\/p>\n
Around 10 flights this month enabled us to perfect the variable-pitch settings of our new propeller and confirm the performance gains. The news is promising as we prepare to reach FL330 this summer: HB-SXA is climbing faster than ever. The test campaign ended with a performance flight on 25 June, when our test pilot reached FL170 \u2013 over 5,000 metres. This was also a chance to test the automatic power cut-off protection system \u2013 vital for optimising battery use and solar energy at high altitude. Now we head to Sion Airport, where the team will settle in to prepare for the 10,000 m attempt!<\/p>\n\n\t\t