Founded in Switzerland by Bertrand Piccard, a psychiatrist, explorer, and aeronaut who made the first non-stop round the world balloon flight, and André Borschberg, an engineer by education, entrepreneur, and pilot, the Solar Impulse project focuses on flying without fuel, using renewable solar power to demonstrate the huge potential of clean technologies. The HB-SIA prototype airplane, which has the wingspan of a jumbo jet but is as light as a small car, is the first aircraft to fly day and night powered solely by the sun. It has set five world records including a historical 26-hour non-stop flight. While it is on public display on the grounds of the Udvar-Hazy Center, members of the Solar Impulse team will be on hand to explain the aircraft and its technology.

Enter through the building's main entrance and you will be directed to the door leading outside of the Space Hangar to the aircraft's tented display area. Viewing is on a first-come basis and tickets are not required. This opportunity is being made available by Solar Impulse Across America.