Post #3134310

2026-02-11 19:04 UTC

@alxd@writing.exchange I was just looking at https://storyseedlibrary.org/art/jacob-coffin-cargo-airship-docked/ and started wondering if the idea of solar-powered airships was explored (in the solarpunk community or engineering, even?). Do you know if this is a "thing"?

Replies (2)

@alxd@writing.exchange 2026-02-11 19:15

@flaki@flaki.social do you mean real-life, or in fiction? For both the answer is yes, but they're currently pretty impractical. My favorite sci-fi thing to do with metamaterials is https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vacuum_airship , that'd be really Solarpunk :D

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@jacobcoffin@writing.exchange 2026-02-12 00:44

@flaki@flaki.social @alxd@writing.exchange yes! I'm actually working on a worldbuilding resource on airships with another person who is far more knowledgeable on them - airships have a ton of potential, especially with the vastly improved technology and materials available in the modern day. They make a ton of sense in the cargo helicopter niche, being safer, able to haul larger cargoes longer distances. They may also make sense for cargo and passenger service in some niches!

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