Solar plane operating since 2010

The plane is powered by solar energy. (Photo: Getty images)

After flying successfully on a flight in Switzerland, the first solar powered aircraft in the world will be officially put into use in February.

The aircraft has a wingspan of 262 feet, the width of which is equivalent to the A380.

However, due to its carbon-based design it weighs a mere 1.5 tonnes. The power supplied to the four engines of the plane is taken from the ultra-thin solar array designed on the aircraft.

The aircraft, which has been operated by Swiss explorer Bertrand Piccard since its inaugural flight, will fly through the Atlantic in 2012.