Extremely huge dirigible/airplane hybrid feasibility

Hybrid dirigible airplane with an extremely large surface area on the top and bottom. Talking at least 100 km2. It would likely be several modular pieces put together, given its size. It would need to stay aloft for months on end. Stay aloft above most of the weather, ie 40,000 to 50,000 feet, for more access to solar power. Some ability to maneuver with propellers or other means, though I do not expect much considering it's massive size. Maybe 10 mph or so laterally or in addition to the winds direction. Ability to station keep, or at least slow significantly down. See issues with scenario below for specific questions about feasibility, reasonably close to hard science please.

Purposes for this behemoth:

• To block out the sun in the east-central pacific to disrupt El Nino. Including sea water drawn up for increased cloud formation.

• To block out the sun near wildfires, droughts, lethal record temperature areas. In order reduce the temperature and potential create rain.

• To collect solar power for propulsion, ship functions and for inhabited areas below for use.

  • Via tether or microwave.
  • Not intended for large habitation, space for the crew, research and a hotel for the great views of Earth and the night sky.
  • Possible transportation of goods and people but not main purpose.
  • Launch platform for rockets to orbit.
  • Test bed for tether system for future potential space elevator/tether.

Issues with scenario:

• Is there enough lifting gas, Hydrogen, Helium, even pure Nitrogen? the hybrid design should help with lift significantly.

• How much temperature drop can be expected with a couple days of shading with this size structure?

• Is it maneuverable? Can it station keep (or slow down) at all? Can it stay aloft for months? Can it be powered by solar power alone?
• Is a tether feasible from this altitude with current technology?

posted about 7 years ago

Brooks Nelson‭

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