Around the world
PlanetSolar is accomplishing a journey around the world calling several times along the Equator where the available sunshine period is maximal. The four sailors of PlanetSolar will cross the Atlantic ocean, the Panama Canal, the Pacific ocean, the Indian ocean, and finally the Suez Canal in order to reach the Mediterranean.
The stops (Miami, Cancun, Brisbane, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore, Abu Dhabi, etc.) will allow the project to increase its impact and visibility and will serve as a promotion platform for renewable energy and solar energy in particular.
Description of the expedition
The first journey around the world using solar energy is happening from the East to the West. Departed on 27 September 2010 from Monaco, the Tûranor PlanetSolar follows a road close to the Equator. After crossing the Atlantic ocean, the Panama Canal, the Pacific ocean, the Indian ocean, the Suez Canal, and the Mediterranean, the ship will reach Monte Carlo with an estimated time of arrival set to spring 2012.
To successfully achieve this journey, the crew can only count on the energy provided by the sun and must constantly optimise the ship’s route and speed in accordance with the sunshine duration and the weather forecast in the mid-term. A new routing work in partnership with Météo France that requires flair, patience and tenacity and that has involved the development of forecaster and innovative softwares.
