SolarStratos is flying high, powered by the sun using CSEM ultralightweight photovoltaics
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Author
Despeisse, M.
Duvoisin, P.
Charrière, C.
Sunier, J.
Li, H.
Escarre, J.
Levrat, J.
Stauffer, Y.
Bonnet-Eymard, B.
Ballif, C.
DOI
Abstract
The SolarStratos solar plane reached a world record altitude of 9,521 metres in 2025, making the HB-SXA the highest-flying manned electric and solar-powered aircraft in history. For SolarStratos, our team designed, developed, fabricated and installed innovative ultra lightweight solar panels on the wings and the empennage of Solarstratos, using advanced materials specially engineered at CSEM to withstand extreme conditions at high altitudes even up to the stratosphere. This expertise allows SolarStratos to be powered by CSEM technology to fly longer, higher, and more efficiently. This record demonstrates the power of innovation, collaboration, and engineering excellence, in shaping a more sustainable future.
Publication Reference
CSEM Scientific and Technical Report 2025, p. 75–76
Year
2025