The technology Propane burners	Contents	The technology A pressurized cabin

THE NEW CAPSULE

In technical terms, the choice of propane burners obliged the manufacturer to develop a new capsule: while the relatively small size of the kerosene bags meant they could be stored in the keel, the volume and weight of propane cylinders required the manufacture of a titanium structure to hold the 28 containers placed on each side of the capsule, in two rows of seven. The keel, whose role is to stabilize flotation in case of a sea landing or to soften a rough landing, is now devoid of kerosene bags and has been lightened and reduced in size accordingly. The kevlar and carbon fiber fuselage of the capsule is identical to that of previous versions, particularly in terms of size, measuring 5.40 meters long and 2.85 meters high.

There have been few changes inside. The area arranged for the three crew members of Breitling Orbiter 2 retains the same features, except that it will house only two pilots. The relative additional space will be welcome if one considers that the flight could last 21 days. The equipment remains fairly rudimentary: a 12V water-heater in the kitchen area, a toilet at the back and a bunk for pilots rest periods.

Propane burners The technology

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A pressurized cabin The technology