Solar Plane Plans to Fly Around the World in 2010

Bertrand Piccard, a Swiss "adventurer" wants to make a point. He wants to show the world what can be accomplished using solar power with his solar plane, which is currently under construction.

From the article:

The conceptual design is now in progress. For the plane to be ready for flight in 2010, the following schedule must be kept:

2006-2007: Detailed design and assembly of the plane

2008: First test flights and night flights

2009: Solar flights of several days duration

2010: Round-the-world flight

The round-the-world trip will take place in five stages, each of which will last three to five days. It will fly from west to east and between 10° and 30° north of the Equator to take advantage of the prevailing winds and sunlight.

ISA Article: Solar Plane to Fly Around the World