Bertrand Piccard unveils Climate Impulse initiative
Hydrogen-powered aircraft set for 2028 flight
Swiss explorer Bertrand Piccard, renowned for his daring circumnavigations, has revealed his latest venture: Climate Impulse, a pioneering effort in emission-free aviation.
This groundbreaking project involves the development of a green hydrogen-powered aircraft capable of completing a non-stop flight around the globe.
With science company Syensqo as the primary technological partner, Piccard aims to demonstrate tangible solutions for a cleaner, more sustainable world.
Piccard, known for his previous feats such as circumnavigating the globe in a balloon and a solar aircraft, now focuses on reducing aviation emissions.
The collaboration with Syensqo marks a significant step in pushing the boundaries of innovation towards environmental progress.
2028 debut
The aircraft, directed by engineer and navigator Raphaël Dinelli, will embark on its historic journey in 2028.
The construction of the aircraft, supported by industry giants like Airbus, Daher, Capgemini, and Ariane Group, is already underway.
The two-year construction phase will be followed by rigorous testing to ensure the aircraft’s readiness for the ambitious mission.
Piccard and Dinelli are slated to pilot the plane on its nonstop circumnavigation along the Equator, showcasing the potential of technological solutions in addressing climate challenges.
More than just a flight, Climate Impulse represents a flagship endeavour in environmental innovation, aiming to revolutionise the aviation sector and beyond.
By leveraging green hydrogen technology and sustainable materials from Syensqo, the project seeks to inspire global sustainability efforts and reshape traditional perceptions of decarbonisation.
The development of Climate Impulse poses significant technological challenges, particularly in maintaining liquid hydrogen at extreme temperatures during prolonged flight.
However, with Syensqo’s expertise and innovative solutions, Piccard remains confident in overcoming these hurdles and setting new benchmarks in aviation technology.
Environmental exploration
Piccard’s commitment to environmental exploration is deeply rooted in his family’s legacy, with predecessors who pioneered scientific endeavours in prospecting.
Climate Impulse builds upon the success of Piccard’s previous venture, Solar Impulse, which demonstrated the viability of renewable energy in aviation.
In Piccard’s vision, Climate Impulse is not just about flying around the world but about catalysing a shift towards sustainable progress.
By showcasing disruptive solutions, he aims to inspire action and optimism in the face of ecological challenges.
Syensqo’s CEO, Ilham Kadri, echoes this sentiment, emphasising the company’s dedication to driving carbon neutrality and advancing humanity through sustainable innovation.
As Climate Impulse is poised to take flight, it heralds a new era of environmental stewardship in aviation, illustrating the transformative power of collaboration and innovation in addressing the pressing challenges of climate change.
Featured image: The Climate Impulse aircraft will embark on its historic journey in 2028. Credit: Climate Impulse
