CNN Travel: ‘Lighter-than-air’ aircraft has first test flight
An innovative aircraft that turns into a "lighter-than-air" balloon to propel itself forward has been flown for the first time.
The Phoenix is designed to repeatedly switch between being lighter and heavier than air to generate thrust and allow it to stay in the skies indefinitely. Officially known as an “ultra-long endurance autonomous aircraft,” it was developed by scientists in Scotland and flown over a distance of 120 meters (394 feet) during its first test flight in March. Arts festivals all over Japan are helping to change local communities for the better, bringing new people, ideas, and ways to make a living.
Officially known as an “ultra-long endurance autonomous aircraft,” it was developed by scientists in Scotland and flown over a distance of 120 meters (394 feet) during its first test flight in March.
