Solar Impulse Completes Flight Tests

Solar Impulse, the solar-powered electric airplane that will fly around the world in 2015, has successfully completed 21 flights and is ready for the expedition, according to the nonprofit group's website. The aircraft, which is now in Switzerland, will be dismantled, packed into a cargo plane, and reassembled in Abu Dhabi in preparation for a March launch. Andr Borschberg and Bertrand Piccard said they are confident in the aircraft's capability and their own training, and they will take turns as pilot. The round-the-world flight is expected to take 25 days of flying over four or five months. Some legs above the Atlantic and Pacific will require five to six days of nonstop solo flight.

The aircraft's wings measure about 236 feet across, and carry more than 17,000 solar cells. The entire airplane weighs about 5,000 pounds. During its stay in Abu Dhabi, the aircraft will be featured in educational workshops that aim to inspire Emirati youth to take an interest in aeronautics, science and renewable energy technologies. Solar Impulse also will be showcased during the World Future Energy Summit, which will be held in Abu Dhabi, Jan. 17 to 22.