Earlier this month, Aeroscraft — a 36,000-pound airship prototype — successfully lifted off for the first time at its California hangar. Funded by DARPA, NASA, and the US Department of Defense, the 230-foot long lighter-than-air vehicle's frame is made of aluminum and carbon fiber, and is covered in a reflective Mylar skin. The Aeroscraft works by pressurizing helium — the gas is heavier when condensed, causing the Aeroscraft to sink, and when released, the helium displaces heavier air and lifts the blimp-like aircraft.
The Aeroscraft uses about one-third of the fuel of conventional aircraft, and because it can lift off and land vertically, it has no need for runways or ground personnel. This means that it could be used to deliver...
via The Verge - All Posts http://www.theverge.com/2013/1/30/3933910/massive-nasa-funded-airship-prototype-takes-off-for-the-first-time
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