A new chapter in aviation history has been written by Swiss explorer and pilot Raphaël Domjan, who set a world record by flying a solar-powered aircraft to an altitude of 9,521 meters. On August 12, Domjan piloted the experimental HB-SXA SolarStratos aircraft for more than five hours, proving that solar-electric planes are not only viable but also capable of reaching altitudes traditionally reserved for fuel-powered aircraft.
The SolarStratos mission was designed to push the limits of sustainable aviation. Unlike conventional airplanes, this 450-kilogram craft is equipped with 25-meter-long wings covered in solar panels, generating enough energy to power its twin electric motors for extended periods. The wings host 22.4 square meters of solar cells, while an auxiliary 20 kWh lithium-ion battery ensures backup power. Domjan relied entirely on solar energy and thermal currents from the summer ground to sustain his climb, highlighting how renewable power can rival fossil fuels even under extreme conditions.
For safety, Domjan wore a pressurized astronaut-style suit, providing oxygen and insulation against extreme conditions, including -70°C temperatures at high altitude. Since the cockpit is non-pressurized, every technical detail mattered. A variable-pitch propeller ensured flight stability in rarefied air, and despite the risks, the mission proceeded smoothly, marking over 100 flight hours logged by the aircraft to date.
This record surpasses the previous milestone set in 2010 by André Borschberg of Solar Impulse, who reached 9,235 meters. The symbolism of Domjan’s achievement became clear when his solar-electric aircraft briefly flew alongside a passenger jet burning tons of fuel, offering a poetic glimpse into the future of green aviation.
Beyond breaking records, Domjan’s ambitions extend further. His next goal is to reach the stratosphere at 25 km altitude, which will enable climate and atmospheric research while pushing engineering boundaries. Even more ambitious is his vision of space exploration powered solely by solar energy, building on his pioneering work with PlanetSolar, the first solar-powered ship to circumnavigate the globe.
While current solar-powered aircraft face limitations such as restricted passenger capacity and no cargo capability, their role in scientific exploration, pilot training, and sustainable innovation is becoming increasingly vital. With advancements in lightweight materials, battery storage, and solar technology, projects like SolarStratos are laying the foundation for a future where aviation can exist without fossil fuels.
Conclusion:
Raphaël Domjan’s record-breaking ascent is more than just a technical feat—it is a symbol of possibility. The SolarStratos project proves that clean energy solutions can transform aviation, reduce carbon emissions, and inspire future generations. Though challenges remain, each new milestone brings humanity closer to a sky where flight is powered only by the sun’s limitless energy.
