The first solar powered jet, which we covered before, has been making its way onto the runway. As of yet, only tests of landing gear and taxi testing have been taking place.

Bertrand Piccard has been leading the testing and the Solar Impulse project, which is well on its way to its goal of circumnavigating the globe by 2012. All of this, of course, will be powered by only the sun's rays, and a lot of good wishes from the ground.

This airplane has been described as having, "the wingspan of an Airbus and the weight of a car."

The recent trips it has been taking out of the hangar have only given those involved high-hopes. Its first flight is to take place early next year, and this seems like a viable goal.

[Via: Engadget]