A massive, experimental airship that can carry 55 people at about 160mph is under development by French researchers.The 700ft, double-decked and aptly named Manned Cloud will cruise at at 18,000ft., and include a 20-room hotel, restaurant, library, gym and a spa.
There will also be a sun deck on top of the double helium-filled deck. The airship will be powered by a giant rear propeller and two additional engines pointing downwards downward facing engines for vertical take-off.
French national aerospace research lab Onera worked in conjunction with aerospace company Massaud. In fact Massaud is pushing the Manned Cloud as an upscale, environmentally-friendly (exactly what kind of fuel will power the engines hasn't been decided yet) way for travelers to see the world. Of course what that trip might cost you hasn't been determined yet but it seems likely to be astronomical.
Massoud said: "The Manned Cloud permits you to explore the world without leaving a trace. Passengers can experience spectacular and exotic places without being intrusive or exploitative," a spokesman said. The craft isn't expected to take on passengers till 2020 however.
A number or reports likened the Manned Cloud to the whale-like aircraft from the 1960s TV show The Thunderbirds.
This isn't the first giant airship under development. The Strato Cruiser is another concept aircraft being developed by researchers.
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