("Larry Dighera" wrote)
Story he
http://www.businessweek.com/innovate/content/may2006/id20060508_074303.htm

Aircraft information:

http://www.solar-impulse.com/scripts/page7203.html

Objectives and main stages
The challenge consists in conceiving an airplane capable of taking off
autonomously, then climbing to an altitude of 12,000 metres, and
maintaining its flight for several days with no fuel, propelling itself by
means only of the solar cells mounted on its wings.


This should be setup like those x-country solar car races.

Like the National ["Reliability"] Air Tours (1925 - 1931) this isn't about
speed, but it should be about going someplace - even if it's just a three
day (three state) circular course at 40,000 ft.

I know, Around The World Flight is the eventual goal - and the real race.
That will be accomplished by an individual, whenever. Meanwhile we gather
....and race in smaller circles

I disagree with the self launch (autonomous) requirement for right now.
Let's cut 'em all some slack this first time out of the box! :-)

A White Knight/SpaceShipOne approach would be fine with me ...or balloons
....or whaterver works to get out teams up there. Once there the race begins.

"And they're off..."
"How can you tell?"

"Beer will be served for three days, with sales ending one hour before the
planned landing times. Enjoy the race."


Montblack
http://www.nationalairtour.org/
(1925-1931) + 2003 National Air Tour