Solar Riser: Flying with Solar Power

What energy policymakers have long dreamed of, an American amateur aircraft builder has made a reality: the first solar-powered airplane. The “Solar Riser,” powered by pure sunlight, was developed by EAA member Larry Mauro and made its maiden flight on April 29. Six hundred solar cells on the upper surface of the wings provide the necessary energy conversion. The “solar power” is stored in a battery, from which the electricity is then transmitted to a 4-PS electric motor. Among those particularly interested in this aircraft is U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who has reportedly already announced a visit. Larry Mauro will bring the “Solar Riser” to this year’s EAA airshow in Oshkosh, where the solar-powered aircraft is scheduled to make daily demonstration flights. The “Solar Riser” is the first—but not the only—solar-powered aircraft.

When glider pilots claim they fly on solar energy, it seems almost like an ironic self-deception compared to Larry Mauro, who takes off under his own power without winches or tow planes.