SolarImpulse - Destination Morocco patch.
July 6, 2012
The long awaited moment has finally arrived. This morning at 05:17AM (UTC), Friday 6 July, HB-SIA, piloted by Bertrand Piccard, took-off from its temporary home in Rabat, leaving the Moroccan soil to make its way back to Europe.
HB-SIA, piloted by Bertrand Piccard, ready to flight
The flight had originally been scheduled for this past Tuesday, 3 July, but due to a sudden change in weather conditions, it was postponed. The wait seemed to be long as, in our minds, we had psychologically begun our “goodbyes” to Morocco while our tummies began preparing for jamón and paellas.
But that day has finally come and our mouths are already watering. For those of us that were cheering for Italy in the Euro Cup finals, we just need ensure not to make any uncomfortable slips as we might miss our chance to a nice Spanish meal. In fact, when Bertrand was asked whether he was ready to talk about fútbol, he replied he’s more comfortable speaking about larger balls than those kicked around in stadiums, balls more like balloons that fly in the skies… I think it’s a good strategy and I might adopt a spinoff to secure a Salud! to a soothing glass of red.
SolarImpulse takeoff from Rabat
On more serious terms, today’s flight still remains particularly challenging due to strong crosswinds over the Iberian Peninsula. The initial part of the flight will be smooth, leading HB-SIA towards Tangier and over the Strait of Gibraltar. However, once Bertrand enters Spain, he will need to navigate west of Seville to a first holding point. This is where the winds are expected to be stronger, up to 35-40 knots, which will have a tendency to push the Solar Impulse prototype eastward. The aircraft will therefore need to steer far enough to the West to ensure it is not pushed east of the planned track. Bertrand will then fly towards Toledo and finally to Madrid. A short holding is planned around the Spanish capital, but just long enough to get the green light from the Control Tower for Bertrand to being his final descent.
HB-SIA takeoff from Rabat to Madrid
But at least Bertrand is not alone. This is the first time HB-SIA has a passenger in addition to the pilot. A Moroccan fly has decided to try its luck and taste some of the flavors on the other side of the Strait! Do we have an insect size oxygen mask in the cockpit, anybody?
Expected Landing: Barajas- Madrid Airport (Spain) after 11:00 PM (UTC).
For more information and see online the flight: http://live.solarimpulse.com/
Images, Video, Text, Credits: SolarImpulse / Jean Revillard.
Greetings, Orbiter.ch
