Jay Clemens
The Solar Impulse 2 electric aircraft has incorporated Inmarsat-developed satellite connectivity system as it began its solar-powered round-the-world flight.
Solar Impulse 2 took off from Abu Dhabi on March 9 and will make stops in Oman, India, Myanmar and China throughout its route, Inmarsat said Friday.
Inmarsat partner Cobham SATCOM developed the Aviator 300SP (special purpose) system for the aircraft and SITA OnAir provides the satellite connectivity for pilot voice and data communications, live weather updates and aircraft monitoring.
Johan Gericke, director of systems engineering at Cobham SATCOM, said the Aviator 300SP system is developed for Solar Impulse to meet the weight requirements.
The Solar Impulse team’s national partner Swisscom developed the aircraft’s communications system.
Solar Impulse 2 is scheduled to return to Abu Dhabi by late July or early August 2015.
