Discussion: Solar Aircraft Lost Over the Pacific

[Fraser]

SUMMARY: NASA's remotely piloted Helios aircraft was destroyed on Thursday when it broke up over the Pacific Ocean near the Hawaiian Islands. The Helios is a large flying covered with solar cells which is designed to fly at very high altitudes for very long durations - it broke the world altitude record when it reached 29,500 metres in August, 2001. In the future, fleets of these aircraft could replace the services of satellites for a fraction of the cost. The cause of the accident isn't known.


What do you think about this story? Post your comments below.

[jkmccrann]

It's sad, but given the name Helios, not that surprising, afterall Helios was known for `Driving a fiery chariot across the skies'. Let's just hope they don't name any of these aircraft Icarus for instance.

[Dragon Star]

Wow jkmccrann, dug up an old bone here didn't you?:D

Anyone know if it was recovered?

[jkmccrann]

I'm actually just having a look into that matter, I'll report back if I find anything.

[jkmccrann]

Rather pretty, and uniquely designed craft actually.

Helios (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helios_Prototype)

Helios Again (http://www.zinkle.com/p/articles/mi_pasa/is_200306/ai_869217631)

Shame to lose it.

[Dragon Star]

Thanks for the links, it is quite a unique aircraft indeed.