Eco Factor: Prototype airplane to be powered by human energy.
A team of Microsoft employees will compete Saturday in Red Bull’s Flugtag Competition with an airplane that will be powered by human energy. Dubbed the Windows Project Phoenix, the glider will aim to beat the Flugtag record of 207 feet. During the competition, the plane will be pushed off a ramp 30 feet above water.
Though the competition is just for fun rather than for the development of a commercial grade human-powered aircraft, the team isn’t taking it lightly. The Phoenix has been made from lightweight materials to ease flight. Built at the cost of just $1000, the Phoenix features a frame crafted out of old windsurf masts which are wrapped in carbon fiber.
The ribs of the aircraft have been made from plastic sheets created from recycled soda bottles. The weight limit for the aircraft, pilot included, is 450 pounds.
Images Courtesy: Windows Project Phoenix
Via: Seattle Times
