Turanor PlanetSolar - The Sleek Solar-Powered Catamaran

The Turanor PlanetSolar, a spaceship-like craft that measured 31 meters(102 feet), long and cost $15 million to build. The project was set-up in 2004 by a Swiss national, Raphael Domjan, a former ambulance driver, mountain guide and rescue specialist. Mr. Domjan spent years of raising funds before the Planetsolar became a reality. The modern solar technology vessel
was designed in New Zealand and was built in Germany by Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft, and flying a Swiss flag. The Turanor Planet Solar is now on its first solar boat expedition around the globe.

The Turanor Planet Solar's top is covered of about 600 square meters of solar panels (825 photovoltaic panels). By allowing the vessel to sail even when there's no sun, and stored energy for about 3 days at 7,5 knots. The collected energy by the panels are stored in Lithium-ion batteries. Specifically designed software for the craft allows the team to work out the most energy-efficient route and speed, factoring in sunlight waves and wind.

To find out more about the first solar boat's global expedition, visit planetsolar.org