There are many places in the world where the infrastructure does not exist to allow easy access, yet access is still required. Many remote ecosystems which support endangered species must be monitored and protected, and more importantly many areas of the world are too far-removed from society to enable a ready supply of medical, or food supplies.
EVE, a Canadian charity, has set up an institute known as the Solar Ship Foundation which aims to develop solar powered, helium filled flying machines which can be used to provide easy, cheap, clean access to any of the aforementioned locations.
The Solar Ship Foundation offers three variations of aircraft with the largest boasting a carrying capacity of 12 tonnes, and an unlimited flight range.
The foundation is currently focussing on two projects:
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The Mazava Project hopes to use the aircraft in order "to provide isolated people with aviation transport of medical supplies and medical services;" such as a mobile malaria clinic in Uganda and Malawi, and a mobile integrated clinic in Madagascar.
The Savoka Project will provide environmentally friendly "aviation services to people living in and around unique ecosystems supporting species-at-risk and cultures-at-risk."
Efforts to raise $1 million are underway in order to set up projects in Africa, including building the aircraft and training local pilots. They are trying to sell advertising space on the giant airship in order to attract investors. Unfortunately the charity is still far from its goal.
By. James Burgess of Oilprice.com
James Burgess studied Business Management at the University of Nottingham. He has worked in property development, chartered surveying, marketing, law, and accounts. He has also… More