Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Boeing 787 Dreamliner completes first Trans-Pacific passenger flight, lands in Boston as JAL 8]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/23/boeing-787-dreamliner-completes-first-trans-pacific-passenger-fl/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/23/boeing-787-dreamliner-completes-first-trans-pacific-passenger-fl/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/23/boeing-787-dreamliner-completes-first-trans-pacific-passenger-fl/#comments

Boeing 787 Dreamliner completes first Trans-Pacific passenger flight, lands in Boston as JAL 8

We've been fortunate enough to hitch a ride on Boeing's 787 within the Land of the Rising Sun, but now the Dreamliner has hopped the Pacific with passengers on board, departing Tokyo Narita and landing at Boston's Logan International Airport around noon on Sunday. The JAL service marks New England's first Asia route, enabled by the 787's efficient design which lets airlines fly to lower-demand cities without wasting fuel on empty seats. The 787 will be making the 6,869-mile journey four times a week through May 31st, at which point daily service will begin, with flight 7 departing Boston at 1:20PM and arriving in Tokyo at 4 the following afternoon. Passengers on flight 8 will leave Tokyo at 11:30AM and land in Boston at 11:20AM on the same day. This is likely to be your best opportunity to ride a US-bound Dreamliner until United begins service later this year, so hit up the source link to get your fix, priced upwards of $1,500 for dates throughout the summer.

Boeing 787 Dreamliner completes first Trans-Pacific passenger flight, lands in Boston as JAL 8 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 23:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>787aircraftairplaneairplanesairportairportsaviationboeingboeing 787boeing dreamlinerBoeing787BoeingDreamlinerbostonboston loganBostonLogandreamlinerflightflyingjaljapanjapan airlinesJapanAirlinesnew englandNewEnglandplaneplanestokyoMon, 23 Apr 2012 23:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Boeing CST-100 capsule could shuttle astronauts to ISS, shows off its innards in Colorado Springs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/19/boeing-cst-100-on-display/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/19/boeing-cst-100-on-display/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/19/boeing-cst-100-on-display/#comments

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With the Space Shuttle now officially grounded, NASA has been researching alternatives for ferrying astronauts from Earth to the International Space Station, orbiting some 230 miles above the planet. One such vehicle has made its way from Boeing's HQ to the National Space Symposium in Colorado Springs, where a full-size model is on display for conference attendees. Externally, the spacecraft appears very similar to the reentry modules of yesteryear, measuring 14.5 feet with room for up to seven people. The craft is designed to make its way through the atmosphere mounted to an Atlas V rocket, and is rated for up to 10 roundtrip missions. As is typical with spacecraft, it looks like astronauts won't be traveling with first-class accommodations -- things will likely feel quite cozy when the CST-100 is at capacity -- but such conditions come with the territory. There's no date set for delivery, but the craft could be making its way to space as early as 2015, and has reportedly been tested in the Nevada desert as recently as this month.

Boeing CST-100 capsule could shuttle astronauts to ISS, shows off its innards in Colorado Springs originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 17:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aircraftAtlas VAtlasVaviationBoeingBoeing CST-100BoeingCst-100capsuleCST-100international space stationInternationalSpaceStationISSnasaNational Space SymposiumNationalSpaceSymposiumrocketsshuttlespacespace capsulespace shuttlespace stationspace travelSpaceCapsuleSpaceShuttleSpaceStationSpaceTravelThu, 19 Apr 2012 17:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Retired Boeing 737 repurposed as garage-kept flight simulator (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/18/retired-boeing-737-flight-simulator-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/18/retired-boeing-737-flight-simulator-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/18/retired-boeing-737-flight-simulator-video/#comments Image

A fresh concept it's not, but a fresh look? Yeah, we'll take that. California resident, air traffic controller, pilot and all-around gentleman James Price has converted the actual nose of a 1969 Boeing 737 into his own personal flight simulator. According to the man himself, he "gutted" the bird, installed "all new" parts, slid it into his garage and... well, took a few minutes to show it to the world. While pretty much any flight sim owner would claim that his or hers was "just like the real thing," it's hard to deny that fact with this one. We're told that it took some three years to complete, and the end result leaves no doubt of James' toiling. Head on past the break for the vid.

Continue reading Retired Boeing 737 repurposed as garage-kept flight simulator (video)

Retired Boeing 737 repurposed as garage-kept flight simulator (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 22:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>737boeingboeing 737Boeing737californiaflightflight simflight simulatorFlightSimFlightSimulatorgaragesimulationsimulatorvideoWed, 18 Apr 2012 22:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Boeing 787 set for first biofuel-powered flight tonight]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/16/boeing-787-set-for-first-biofuel-powered-flight-tonight/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/16/boeing-787-set-for-first-biofuel-powered-flight-tonight/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/16/boeing-787-set-for-first-biofuel-powered-flight-tonight/#comments Boeing 787 set for first biofuel-powered flight tonight

Biofuel in planes is hardly a new idea, but when Boeing's latest and greatest aircraft gets in on the green game, we take notice. That's right, a ANA 787 Dreamliner is currently preparing to take off from Everett, Washington this evening and will make its way across the Pacific to Tokyo powered by biofuel. Well played, Boeing, we're all for celebrating Earth Day a little early, and it's always good to see someone giving Sir Richard Branson a run for his money.

[Photo credit: Boeing, Flickr]

Boeing 787 set for first biofuel-powered flight tonight originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 21:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>787airplanebiofuelboeingboeing 787boeing 787 dreamlinerBoeing787Boeing787Dreamlinereco friendlyeco-friendlyEcoFriendlygreenjetplaneplanesMon, 16 Apr 2012 21:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Boeing to launch super secure Android phone, hopes it takes off]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/12/boeing-to-launch-super-secure-android-phone/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/12/boeing-to-launch-super-secure-android-phone/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/12/boeing-to-launch-super-secure-android-phone/#commentsBoeing to launch super secure Android phone, will it take off?You know what we've always wondered? Why doesn't Boeing just hurry up and release a phone? Joking aside, this is really happening. The news comes via National Defense Magazine which reports that the airplane manufacturer is developing an Android handset which will have strong security credentials. Currently dubbed "the Boeing phone" we hope the firm puts more thought into its aircraft than its project codenames. Before you start folding out your green, however, be warned that despite running Google's popular OS, and being a cellular device, the price point is still likely to be more jumbo jet than paper plane, with a Boeing exec pointing out that competitor offerings typically float around the $15-20,000 mark. He goes on to point out that it won't cost as much as this, but will still likely be out of our reach back here in coach. No word on any sort of specification at the minute, but if you fancy yourself as a high-flyer (or more likely, you work in defense) keep an eye out for this landing later on this year. Now, what if Samsung made a plane..?

Boeing to launch super secure Android phone, hopes it takes off originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 17:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidBoeingboeing mobileboeing phoneBoeingMobileBoeingPhonecellphonedefensemobilepostcrosssecuresecurityThu, 12 Apr 2012 17:43:00 EST<![CDATA[JAL gets twins as Boeing delivers two 787 Dreamliners]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/27/jal-boeing-787-dreamliner-two-delivered/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/27/jal-boeing-787-dreamliner-two-delivered/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/27/jal-boeing-787-dreamliner-two-delivered/#comments JAL gets twins as Boeing delivers two 787 DreamlinersThere's fashionably late and then there's Boeing 787 Dreamliner late -- something that the folks at Japan Airlines learned firsthand following a three-year delay for the highly anticipated aircraft. Fortunately for JAL, the delay wasn't quite on the Duke Nukem Forever scale as the carrier finally got its first set of shiny, new Dreamliners this week. That's two down and 43 more to go for JAL, which no longer has to make hungry eyes at that first 787 that rival All Nippon Airways got last year. As for those other Dreamliners, well, Boeing continues to struggle with some production issues -- including a delamination problem discovered in February involving the carbon composites of some rear fuselages. Nevertheless, Boeing hopes to ramp up production from 2.5 to 3.5 planes per month as it builds up to a final monthly goal of 10 planes. In the meantime, you can try designing your own 787 or check out our Dreamliner review. That's right, we reviewed a whole freaking plane 'cause that's how we roll around here.

JAL gets twins as Boeing delivers two 787 Dreamliners originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 05:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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No, not the sensation you get when you have gulped your ice cream too fast. SUGAR Freeze is the a new propulsion concept developed by Boeing that aims to revolutionize air travel. Standing for Subsonic Ultra Green Aircraft Research, the NASA-commissioned project (codenamed "N+4") looks at immature technologies in the hope of kickstarting research for the future. It's reportedly 60 percent more efficient than the equivalent Boeing 737-800, thanks to a very experimental propulsion system. Cryogenically stored liquified natural gas (hence "Freeze") is burned in a pair of unducted fan engines while also powering a solid-oxide fuel cell as an aft-thruster. With LNG projected to remain abundant, more environmentally friendly and cheap well into the century, it makes an ideal substitute to current aviation fuel, which is none of those things. Currently it's far too unsafe a design to contemplate building, and there are concerns about the natural gas production process, but hopes remain that the kinks will be ironed out well before the 2045 deadline.

Boeing's SUGAR Freeze is a cool way to power a plane originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 09:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BoeingEngineJetJet EngineJetEngineLiquified Natural GasLiquifiedNaturalGasLNGN+3N+4NASANatural GasNaturalGasPropulsionSubsonic Ultra Green Aircraft ResearchSubsonicUltraGreenAircraftResearchSUGAR FreezeSugarFreezeWed, 21 Mar 2012 09:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Editorial: How FAA-certified gadgets could improve air travel and eliminate the Terrible 10,000 Feet]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/30/faa-certified-gadgets-could-improve-air-travel/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/30/faa-certified-gadgets-could-improve-air-travel/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/30/faa-certified-gadgets-could-improve-air-travel/#comments Boeing If you're reading this now and have experienced the wonders of modern air travel then you have surely suffered through what I call the "Terrible 10,000 Feet." This is the period between the clunk of the cabin door closing and the bong of the cabin indicator, the chime signifying arrival of the magic altitude where "approved electronic devices" can then be used again. The first half of the worst part of the flight is then over -- the latter half to commence as soon as the plane dips again below that gadget ceiling.

This is the loudest part of the flight -- engines throttled up, flaps and gear hanging in the breeze and scared kids doing their best to drown all that out with screams and shouts. It's exactly when you most want to use your portable music player, and exactly when you aren't allowed. We've been told that this is for safety reasons, to prevent interference from the myriad devices carried by a cabin full of passengers, but that's never quite felt satisfactory to me. (Why is it okay to use those very same devices over 10,000 feet? Why can pilots use iPads but I can't?)

So many questions, but I'm not here to second-guess the people whose jobs it is to keep me safe as I schlep myself, my roller bag and my personal item across the country yet again. I'm here to propose a very simple solution: a certification program in which manufacturers submit devices for testing and the FAA charges a (possibly hefty) fee for their approval. It could not only improve the lives of frequent travellers like myself, but could also stand to provide millions in funding to the FAA, funds that could be put toward its unfortunately named NextGen air traffic control system. Win win? Read on and decide for yourself.

Continue reading Editorial: How FAA-certified gadgets could improve air travel and eliminate the Terrible 10,000 Feet

Editorial: How FAA-certified gadgets could improve air travel and eliminate the Terrible 10,000 Feet originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 30 Dec 2011 12:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boeingeditorialelectromagnetic interferenceElectromagneticInterferenceemfaafccinterferenceFri, 30 Dec 2011 12:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Design your own Boeing 787 Dreamliner... but good luck affording one]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/22/design-your-own-boeing-787-dreamliner-but-good-luck-affording/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/22/design-your-own-boeing-787-dreamliner-but-good-luck-affording/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/22/design-your-own-boeing-787-dreamliner-but-good-luck-affording/#comments Ever wanted to cruise the friendly skies on a 787 Dreamliner? Ever wanted to do precisely that on a Dreamliner of your own? Fantasies aren't always easy to achieve, but at least a new interactive portal is giving frequent fliers the ability to customize a virtual model of Boeing's new hotness. Of course, if you grow tired of tinkering in the source link, there's always our own hands-on experience to dive into.

P.S. - Drop us a line in comments if you find a 'Buy Now' section that takes The Centurion Card.

Design your own Boeing 787 Dreamliner... but good luck affording one originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 23:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>787aircraftairlineairplaneboeingdesigndreamlinerplaneThu, 22 Dec 2011 23:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Boeing 787 review: ANA's Dreamliner flies across Japan, we join for the ride]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/16/boeing-787-review-anas-dreamliner-flies-across-japan-we-join/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/16/boeing-787-review-anas-dreamliner-flies-across-japan-we-join/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/16/boeing-787-review-anas-dreamliner-flies-across-japan-we-join/#comments The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is not the largest plane in the world. Nor is it the fastest. It doesn't have on-board showers or full-size beds, nor can it lay claim to the greatest range or sleekest entertainment system in the air. But it will change the way we fly for decades to come. Boeing's latest commercial airliner is several feet wider and longer than the 767, the company's smallest wide-body (twin-aisle) jet, yet it's 20 percent more fuel efficient. Given that fuel is the single greatest operating cost for any airline, savings of that magnitude could return the industry to profitability, and perhaps even usher in lower airfares for passengers.

But while the 787's efficiency makes it an attractive option for airlines, it also serves up a more comfortable ride for passengers. We recently had a chance to fly on a domestic round trip between Tokyo and Okayama in Japan aboard an All Nippon Airways (ANA) Dreamliner -- one of the first two ever delivered. Quieter engines, dimmable windows, LED lights, huge overhead bins, an in-flight bar and on-demand entertainment enhance comfort, even during shorter flights, while higher humidity, a greater internal pressurization level and a gust alleviation system to reduce the effects of turbulence help improve the experience behind the scenes. Care to take a ride? Jump past the break to join us on board Boeing's brand new Dreamliner.

Gallery: Boeing 787 Dreamliner exterior

Continue reading Boeing 787 review: ANA's Dreamliner flies across Japan, we join for the ride

Boeing 787 review: ANA's Dreamliner flies across Japan, we join for the ride originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>787787 delays787 Dreamliner787Delays787Dreamlinerair travelaircraftairlineairlinesairplaneairplanesAirTravelAll Nippon AirAll Nippon AirwaysAllNipponAirAllNipponAirwaysanaaviationBoeingBoeing 787boeing 787 dreamlinerboeing dreamlinerBoeing787Boeing787DreamlinerBoeingDreamlinerdreamlinerDreamliner delaysDreamlinerDelaysflightflyingjaljapanjapan airlinesJapanAirlinesjetjetsplaneplanesreviewreviewstokyotokyo japanTokyoJapantraveltravelingvideoFri, 16 Dec 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gogo announces agreement with Air China, will begin live trials in early 2012]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/20/gogo-announces-agreement-with-air-china-will-begin-live-trials/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/20/gogo-announces-agreement-with-air-china-will-begin-live-trials/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/20/gogo-announces-agreement-with-air-china-will-begin-live-trials/#commentsYour somewhat boring flights between cities in China are about to get a little less boring. Wireless in-air entertainment outfit Gogo has announced that the company has reached an agreement to provide a trial of its service on Air China flights. The first live trial on a commercial flight was conducted on November 15 on a Boeing 737 en-route from Beijing to Chengdu and live trials are expected to continue through the first quarter of 2012. Gogo is currently available on in-flight entertainment systems and can be installed on an aircraft overnight. Now if Gogo could provide full service for the 13+ hour flight from New York to Beijing and your laptop or smartphone's battery would last for that duration, you'd be set.

Continue reading Gogo announces agreement with Air China, will begin live trials in early 2012

Gogo announces agreement with Air China, will begin live trials in early 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 20 Nov 2011 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>737Air Chinaair travelAirTravelbeijingboeingboeing 737Boeing737chengduchinaentertainmentflightflightsflyingGogogogo wirelessGogoWirelessIFEin-airin-air entertainmentIn-airEntertainmentin-flight entertainmentIn-flightEntertainmentInternetISPtravelSun, 20 Nov 2011 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: Rolls Royce 102EX test drive, electric unicycle and a sun-powered leaf]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/13/inhabitats-week-in-green-rolls-royce-102ex-test-drive-electri/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/13/inhabitats-week-in-green-rolls-royce-102ex-test-drive-electri/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/13/inhabitats-week-in-green-rolls-royce-102ex-test-drive-electri/#commentsEach week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

Electric vehicle momentum swept the states this week as Inhabitat took a spin in the new Rolls Royce 102EX Phantom EV, and we brought you exclusive photos of BMW's brand new i3 and i8 electric cars. We also showcased six sexy electric vehicles set to hit the streets in 2012, watched a 350MPG EV win the Future Car Challenge, and saw scientists create the world's smallest electric vehicle from a molecule and four motors. Meanwhile, El Al airlines announced plans to launch a line of hybrid-electric Boeing 737 airplanes, Ryno unveiled a crazy electric unicycle, and a team of students revealed Uganda's first electric car.

It was a big week for alternative energy as well as Kenya announced plans to tap lava power with a newly Toshiba-built geothermal energy plant and scientists made a breakthrough in using urine as a viable power source. We also looked into a scientist claiming to have achieved cold fusion, a 'solar cucumber' that harvests fresh drinking water from the ocean, and a sun-powered leaf capable of making ice in the desert.

In other news, green textiles advanced by leaps and bounds as scientists wove fabric from 24-karat gold, researchers developed a reusable fabric that administers drugs through the skin, and the University of Kiel's developed a super-adhesive tape inspired by Gecko skin. We also showcased an incredible set of sculptures made from recycled circuit boards, we watched a crop of styrofoam robots invade Germany's streets, and we saw an innovative self-powered irrigation system win the 2011 James Dyson award. And just in time for the chilly winter season, we found these oh-so-handy texting gloves which feature conductive fingertips that allow you to touch, tap, or type on any mobile touchscreen outdoors without having to remove your gloves.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: Rolls Royce 102EX test drive, electric unicycle and a sun-powered leaf originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 13 Nov 2011 20:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwboeingdrugdrugsdysonecoeco-friendlyelectric carElectricCarevgeckogermanygoldgreeni3inhabitatinhabitats Week in GreenInhabitatsWeekInGreenirrigationmedicalrolls royceRollsRoycetoiletWeek in GreenWeekInGreenSun, 13 Nov 2011 20:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Self-moving robot leads automatons in impending robot apocalypse (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/27/self-moving-robot-leads-automatons-in-impending-robot-apocalypse/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/27/self-moving-robot-leads-automatons-in-impending-robot-apocalypse/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/27/self-moving-robot-leads-automatons-in-impending-robot-apocalypse/#comments Just in time for All Hallow's Eve shenanigans, scientists at MIT's DARPA and Boeing funded Chembots program have just introduced an uber creepy self-propelling robot quite capable of leading the robot apocalypse single-handedly. The automaton moves with the help of a pneumatic battery -- a power source that utilizes a hydrogen peroxide catalyst to inflate a soft silicone pod, in turn forcing the bot forward. With electropermanent magnets to regulate built-in valves, all it takes is a small current to activate the bot, which can regulate just how much H202 it will employ for a completely solo and super creepy zombie-like C-walk. Jump past the break to check out the video... if you dare.

Continue reading Self-moving robot leads automatons in impending robot apocalypse (video)

Self-moving robot leads automatons in impending robot apocalypse (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 18:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BoeingChembotschembots programChembotsProgramcontainedDARPAelectromagnetic valvesElectromagneticValveselectropermanent magnetsElectropermanentMagnetsH202hydrogen peroxideHydrogenPeroxideMITpneumatic batteryPneumaticBatteryrobotrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypserobotsself-propellingsiliconevideoThu, 27 Oct 2011 18:06:00 EST<![CDATA[ANA's Boeing 787 Dreamliner touches down after first international flight (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/26/anas-boeing-787-dreamliner-touches-down-after-first-internation/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/26/anas-boeing-787-dreamliner-touches-down-after-first-internation/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/26/anas-boeing-787-dreamliner-touches-down-after-first-internation/#comments All Nippon Airways' Boeing 787 Dreamliner marked the end of its first international flight today, touching down in Hong Kong. The dreamy flying machine took off from Tokyo and arrived to what looks like quite the crowd, including some folks from Engadget Chinese, who were on-hand at Hong Kong International Airport to snap the 787 from every angle and grab some video of the pilots discussing the aircraft. Check that out after the break.

Gallery: ANA's Boeing 787 Dreamliner touches down after first international flight

Continue reading ANA's Boeing 787 Dreamliner touches down after first international flight (video)

ANA's Boeing 787 Dreamliner touches down after first international flight (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 09:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anaboeingboeing 787boeing 787 dreamlinerboeing anaboeing dreamlinerBoeing787Boeing787DreamlinerBoeingAnaBoeingDreamlinerdreamlinerengadget chineseEngadgetChinesevideoWed, 26 Oct 2011 09:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Boeing officially delivers 787 Dreamliner to ANA, future of air travel finally arrives]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/27/boeing-officially-delivers-787-dreamliner-to-ana-future-of-air/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/27/boeing-officially-delivers-787-dreamliner-to-ana-future-of-air/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/27/boeing-officially-delivers-787-dreamliner-to-ana-future-of-air/#comments It's the plane so nice, they unveiled it twice. Boeing once again presented its long-awaited and much-delayed 787 Dreamliner to client All Nippon Airways, but this time the goods were officially delivered. After taking the wraps off the airliner early this August, the aerospace company managed to get a flight-ready unit over to its Everett, Washington production plant for a celebratory hand-off. Despite a fit of stops and starts for the line's rollout, Boeing expects to meet ANA's order of its future 55-strong fleet, producing an additional 20 craft for the Japanese airline by 2013's end. If you want to be among the select few to call "First!," you might want to consider booking that Japan-bound vacation now.

Boeing officially delivers 787 Dreamliner to ANA, future of air travel finally arrives originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Sep 2011 02:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>787787 delays787 Dreamliner787Delays787DreamlineraircraftairlineairlinesairplaneairplanesAll Nippon AirAllNipponAirANABoeingBoeing 787Boeing787dreamlinerDreamliner delaysDreamlinerDelaysjetjetsminipostplaneplanesTue, 27 Sep 2011 02:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Boeing hitches Android to its 787 Dreamliner ride, powers in-flight options with Google juice]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/16/boeing-hitches-android-to-its-787-dreamliner-ride-powers-in-fli/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/16/boeing-hitches-android-to-its-787-dreamliner-ride-powers-in-fli/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/16/boeing-hitches-android-to-its-787-dreamliner-ride-powers-in-fli/#comments Looks like Boeing's decided to get in bed with Android a mile-high in the sky. The aerospace company has exclusively selected Google's mobile OS as the might behind its new class of 787 Dreamliners' in-flight entertainment. Currently in production jets, of which there are over 800 plus orders, will get outfitted with either a Panasonic or Thales model of the 7- to 17-inch screens. And in a strange twist of luxury privileges, first and business class passengers won't get to enjoy the touchscreen tech, as their monitors will be too large and too far out of reach. Instead, an alternate gesture-based control method is being explored by the company for elite travelers, although nothing's been solidified. Don't expect the planes to launch with the typical Android market experience, either -- apparently, "airline-specific apps" are on the way for the nascent fleets' launch. Now, if only they could replace those flight attendants with little green robots.

Boeing hitches Android to its 787 Dreamliner ride, powers in-flight options with Google juice originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AerospaceairlineairlinesAndroidBoeingBoeing 787boeing 787 dreamlinerBoeing787Boeing787DreamlinerdreamlinerGooglein-flightin-flight entertainmentIn-flightEntertainmentjetjetsplaneplanestouchscreentouchscreensFri, 16 Sep 2011 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Gogo to bring enhanced WiFi to Virgin America, expands video streaming on American Airlines]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/16/gogo-to-bring-enhanced-wifi-to-virgin-america-expands-video-str/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/16/gogo-to-bring-enhanced-wifi-to-virgin-america-expands-video-str/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/16/gogo-to-bring-enhanced-wifi-to-virgin-america-expands-video-str/#comments
Virgin America's in-flight perks are getting even perkier. This week, the domestic carrier announced that it's bringing Gogo's ATG-4 service aboard its fleet of aircraft, in a move that promises to enhance in-flight WiFi capacity by a factor of four. The upgrade is slated to roll out during the first half of 2012, when the company will begin outfitting its planes with Gogo's directional antenna, dual-modem and EV-DO Rev. B technologies. But VA isn't the only airline getting in on the Gogo game, as the in-flight entertainment company announced this week that it's expanding its new video streaming service to American Airlines, as well. American, as you may recall, became the first airline to test the Gogo Vision service back in August, aboard its fleet of 15 Boeing 767-200 planes. Now, the streaming product is slated to expand to a full 400 of AA's aircraft, bringing about 200 movies and TV shows to entertainment-starved passengers. Movies will be available for 24 hour rentals, with TV purchases good for a full 72 hours. Unexpired rentals, meanwhile, will still be available once you land and can be accessed with the same browser and device you used aboard the flight. No word on final pricing, though Gogo is extending its introductory offer ($1 per TV show and $4 per movie) through October 15th. Taxi past the break for more details, in a pair of press releases.

Continue reading Gogo to bring enhanced WiFi to Virgin America, expands video streaming on American Airlines

Gogo to bring enhanced WiFi to Virgin America, expands video streaming on American Airlines originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 09:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaaircraftairlineamericanamerican airlinesAmericanAirlinesatg 4atg-4Atg4Boeingdual modemdual-modemDualModemEV-DOev-do rev bEv-doRevBflightgogoin-flightin-flight entertainmentin-flight wifiIn-flightEntertainmentIn-flightWifimoviesplanepricerentalstreamingtraveltvvideovirginvirgin airvirgin americaVirginAirVirginAmericawifiFri, 16 Sep 2011 09:20:00 EST<![CDATA[World's only turbine-powered Batmobile up for sale on eBay, recession hits Bruce Wayne, too]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/30/worlds-only-turbine-powered-batmobile-up-for-sale-on-ebay-rece/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/30/worlds-only-turbine-powered-batmobile-up-for-sale-on-ebay-rece/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/30/worlds-only-turbine-powered-batmobile-up-for-sale-on-ebay-rece/#comments Remember that Boeing-powered Batmobile we ran across last month? Well friends, it could be yours via eBay auction in about a week. Currently, the highest bid is you can buy it now for $620,000 -- which would be enough to cover the cost of several cars not fit for the Caped Crusader. However, none of those come equipped with a helicopter turbine, now do they? Putsch Racing reminds interested parties that the mean machine is street registered in the US, so you can roll like the Dark Knight without fear of the police pursuing you. An iPad loaded with digital avionics helps you monitor the jet engine, and you can use your choice of three fuel sources to power the thing: Jet A, kerosene, or diesel. Hey now, we never said it was environmentally friendly. If you, like Jay-Z, are "planking on a million," check out the detailed auction shots below and bid on Batman's ride yourself.

Gallery: Turbine-powered Batmobile up for sale

World's only turbine-powered Batmobile up for sale on eBay, recession hits Bruce Wayne, too originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 30 Aug 2011 08:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionavionicsBatmanBatmobileBoeingcarseBayfor saleForSaleGPShelicopteripadjetjet engineJetEngineturbineturbine-poweredTue, 30 Aug 2011 08:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Boeing presents first Dreamliner 787 to ANA, flights start in September]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/08/boeing-presents-first-dreamliner-787-to-ana-flights-start-in-se/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/08/boeing-presents-first-dreamliner-787-to-ana-flights-start-in-se/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/08/boeing-presents-first-dreamliner-787-to-ana-flights-start-in-se/#comments Boeing presents first Dreamline to ANA, flights start in September After years of delays, hacker vulnerabilities, and technical hiccups, Boeing is finally reaching the finish line -- the 787 Dreamliner is ready. The first of the firm's fantasy flyers was presented to executives of All Nippon Airways this week, scoring ANA a dreamy new jet that promises to increase fuel efficiency by 20 percent when compared to similarly sized birds. The 787 owes its fuel savings (and selling point) to a primary structure comprised of 50 percent composite materials by weight; the much larger A380 sits pretty at 25 percent composite, for comparison's sake. Despite the official presentation, the inaugural Dreamliner is still just shy of actual delivery, requiring a few more test flights before beginning domestic service (in Japan) this September.

Boeing presents first Dreamliner 787 to ANA, flights start in September originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 07:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>787787 delays787 Dreamliner787Delays787DreamlineraircraftairlineairlinesairplaneairplanesAll Nippon AirAllNipponAirANABoeingBoeing 787Boeing787dreamlinerDreamliner delaysDreamlinerDelaysjetjetsplaneplanesMon, 08 Aug 2011 07:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Boeing's CST-100 to shoot non-NASA astronauts into space by 2015]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/07/boeings-cst-100-to-shoot-non-nasa-astronauts-into-space-by-2015/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/07/boeings-cst-100-to-shoot-non-nasa-astronauts-into-space-by-2015/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/07/boeings-cst-100-to-shoot-non-nasa-astronauts-into-space-by-2015/#comments Day job just too darn terrestrial? Maybe you should score a gig at Boeing, which'll apparently sling two of its very own into space come 2015. What'll be their chariot? The company's CST-100 -- you know that spiffy capsule that can hurtle a lucky seven humans 100km into the dark abyss. Strapped to ULA's Atlas V, the crew will follow two unmanned missions, eventually reaching the International Space Station. If that all goes to plan, commercial service will start in 2016. Now about those extra five seats...

Continue reading Boeing's CST-100 to shoot non-NASA astronauts into space by 2015

Boeing's CST-100 to shoot non-NASA astronauts into space by 2015 originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 07 Aug 2011 12:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Atlas VAtlasVBoeingBoeing CST-100BoeingCst-100capsuleCST-100international space stationInternationalSpaceStationrocketsspacespace capsulespace stationspace travelSpaceCapsuleSpaceStationSpaceTravelSun, 07 Aug 2011 12:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Visualized: Boeing 747-8 makes its longest flight to date, writes name in the sky]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/visualized-boeing-747-8-makes-its-longest-flight-to-date-write/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/visualized-boeing-747-8-makes-its-longest-flight-to-date-write/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/visualized-boeing-747-8-makes-its-longest-flight-to-date-write/#comments
It's always fun to write your name on things -- chalkboards, diplomas, speeding tickets, yellow snow... you know, the usual. The folks at Boeing couldn't agree more, which is why they tasked 747-8 pilots with writing the jet's name in the sky on a flight test across the US. What could be called the "747-8 wuz here" mission is designed to test the outer limits of the jumbo jet in a max endurance operations test. Taking off yesterday morning from Seattle's Paine Field, the jet flew across 18 states in a 747 pattern until it landed on the west coast a little after midnight -- 17 total hours of mayhem. It seems like everything went swimmingly, which means the brand spanking new jet will be sold to Cargolux, a ginormous cargo airline, later this year. The jet writing does somewhat resemble a drunken righty's attempt at left-handed writing, but hey, who are we to judge?

Visualized: Boeing 747-8 makes its longest flight to date, writes name in the sky originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 02:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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American Airlines gives its Boeing 767-200 fleet all the love -- first it sends some 10.1-inch Galaxy Tabs through the gate, and now in-flight streaming videos get the all-clear to board. If you'll recall, AA's been testing Aircell (Gogo) in-flight video streaming, and now the service has gone live on 15 of the transcontinental wide-bodies flying New York to San Francisco or Los Angeles. You won't need to purchase in-flight WiFi to access Entertainment On Demand, but it currently only works on "select laptops," with rentals for television shows priced at $0.99 and movies at $3.99. You'll also be able to access your purchased TV and movie content on your device for 72 or 24 hours, respectively, if your flight soars into its destination ahead of time -- pickins' are quite slim, though, with only around 100 vids to choose from presently. The airline plans to add the service to all of its WiFi-enabled aircraft -- while also expanding device support -- beginning later this year. Fly on for a demo video and press release, parked just past the break.

Continue reading American Airlines rolls out in-flight Entertainment On Demand, lets you continue watching after you land

American Airlines rolls out in-flight Entertainment On Demand, lets you continue watching after you land originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 03 Aug 2011 21:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>767767-200aaaircellAmerican AirlinesAmericanAirlinesboeingboeing 767boeing 767-200Boeing767Boeing767-200entertainmententertainment on demandEntertainmentOnDemandeodgogoGogo internetGogoInflightGogoInternetin-flight streamingin-flight wifiIn-flightStreamingIn-flightWifiinflight streamingInflightStreamingInFlightWifimoviesstreamingtelevisiontvvideovideo on demandVideoOnDemandWed, 03 Aug 2011 21:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Boeing and BAE partner to put a laser on a machine gun, make the world a better place]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/27/boeing-and-bae-partner-to-put-a-laser-on-a-machine-gun-make-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/27/boeing-and-bae-partner-to-put-a-laser-on-a-machine-gun-make-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/27/boeing-and-bae-partner-to-put-a-laser-on-a-machine-gun-make-the/#comments Automated, computer-targeting machine guns are okay in a pinch, but sometimes putting 180 25mm slugs down range every minute just isn't enough. Sometimes you need a little more energy, and that's when you strap a laser on the thing. Boeing and BAE are partnering up to take the existing Mk 38 Mod 2 Machine Gun System, which offers a 25mm M242 barrel, and pair it with Boeing's directed energy system. The resulting beautiful machine is called the Mk 38 Mod 2 Tactical Laser System, offering the ability to fling both hot metal and even hotter photons against whatever targets would dare come in range. This integration is said to allow for these upgraded turrets to be easily installed and controlled on our naval vessels, vessels that are, for now, still stuck on the water. Apparently we're still a few years away from the Wave Motion Engine and FTL battleship travel.

Continue reading Boeing and BAE partner to put a laser on a machine gun, make the world a better place

Boeing and BAE partner to put a laser on a machine gun, make the world a better place originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 27 Jul 2011 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baeboeingdirected energy systemDirectedEnergySystemlasermachine gunMachineGunMk 38 Mod 2Mk 38 Mod 2 Tactical Laser SystemMk38Mod2Mk38Mod2TacticalLaserSystemnaval vesselNavalVesselnavyturretu.s. navyU.s.NavyvideowargadgetWed, 27 Jul 2011 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Man builds turbine-powered Batmobile, brags about having the only one (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/14/man-builds-turbine-powered-batmobile-brags-about-having-the-onl/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/14/man-builds-turbine-powered-batmobile-brags-about-having-the-onl/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/14/man-builds-turbine-powered-batmobile-brags-about-having-the-onl/#comments So you think you're a huge fan of the Dark Knight, huh? Not so fast. Do you own a full-sized Batmobile? Yeah... we didn't think so. But, auto restoration guru Casey Putsch does, and to launch himself further into super-fanboy status, he upgraded the engine with a Boeing turboshaft -- snatched out of a naval drone helicopter. According to him, this makes his collector's item one of a kind, in true Bruce Wayne fashion. Sure, these discarded movie props are usually powered by a standard 350 (especially the older models), but that wasn't enough for a dude's dude who appraises and designs all types of vehicles for a living. Mods were also made to the interior, including an iPad in the dash which serves as the avionics system and keeps track of the important GPS coordinates -- you know, stuff you'd expect Lucious Fox to toss in to track villains and such. For a look at this beast in action, check out the video after the break; meanwhile we'll try to figure out how to cram a jet engine into a Tesla Roadster.

Continue reading Man builds turbine-powered Batmobile, brags about having the only one (video)

Man builds turbine-powered Batmobile, brags about having the only one (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 06:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avionicsBatmanBatmobileBoeingcarsGPShelicopteripadteslatesla roadsterTeslaRoadstervideoThu, 14 Jul 2011 06:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Boeing's Phantom Ray soars like a terrifying, unmanned eagle]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/03/boeings-phantom-ray-soars-like-a-terrifying-unmanned-eagle/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/03/boeings-phantom-ray-soars-like-a-terrifying-unmanned-eagle/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/03/boeings-phantom-ray-soars-like-a-terrifying-unmanned-eagle/#comments Boeing's new Phantom Ray aircraft made a covert first flight last week, taking to the skies above California's Edwards Air Force Base. The unmanned airborne system (UAS) reached 7,500 feet, hitting a maximum speed of 178 knots and flying for a total of 17 minutes -- sure, it won't outlast the Phantom Eye anytime soon, but hey, we've all gotta start somewhere. What the 36-foot long vehicle lacks in relative endurance, it makes up stealth, designed to be undetectable on radar, and thanks to a deeply embedded engine, giving off a minimal amount of heat. Boeing will be running additional tests on the autonomous vehicle in the coming weeks, in attempt to prep it for possible future surveillance and attack missions. No word on when this might actually be hitting an airspace near you, but in the meantime, it's probably best to refrain from ticking off any deep pocketed governments.

Continue reading Boeing's Phantom Ray soars like a terrifying, unmanned eagle

Boeing's Phantom Ray soars like a terrifying, unmanned eagle originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 May 2011 21:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aircraftairplaneboeingboeing phantom rayboeing phantom worksBoeingPhantomRayBoeingPhantomWorksdronefightfighterjetphantom rayPhantomRayplanerobot apocalypseRobotApocalypseuasuavunmannedunmanned aerial vehicleUnmannedAerialVehicleTue, 03 May 2011 21:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Apache's new infrared targeting system spots foes when they fire, doesn't wait for the smoke]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/02/apaches-new-infrared-targeting-system-spots-foes-when-they-fire/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/02/apaches-new-infrared-targeting-system-spots-foes-when-they-fire/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/02/apaches-new-infrared-targeting-system-spots-foes-when-they-fire/#commentsApache Longbow Attack Helicopter It just keeps getting harder for America's enemies to hide from the technological marvel that is the modern US military. A new ground fire acquisition system (GFAS), coming to Apache Attack helicopters next spring, uses infrared sensors to detect muzzle flashes from small arms fire and pinpoint enemy positions to within five meters. Before the sound would have a chance to reach current acoustics-based sensors the source of the shot pops up on the targeting computer, is sent back to commanders in the Operations Center, relayed to ground troops, and fed to other aircraft -- by the time they're able to pull the trigger again combatants may already be on the wrong side of a Hellfire missile. The new system will make spotting opposing forces easier and keep pilots as safe as they can be -- at least until missions can be flown from the comfort of their couch.

Apache's new infrared targeting system spots foes when they fire, doesn't wait for the smoke originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 02 May 2011 13:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AH-64AH-64 ApacheAh-64Apacheapacheapache attack helicopterapache longbowapache longbow attack helicopterApacheAttackHelicopterApacheLongbowApacheLongbowAttackHelicopterarmyboeingboeing AH-64 apacheBoeingAh-64Apachegfasground fire acquisition systemGroundFireAcquisitionSysteminfraredmilitarytargeting systemTargetingSystemwargadgetweaponweaponsMon, 02 May 2011 13:53:00 EST<![CDATA[NASA awards $270 million to SpaceX and other commercial spaceflight ventures]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/19/nasa-awards-270-million-to-spacex-and-other-commercial-spacefli/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/19/nasa-awards-270-million-to-spacex-and-other-commercial-spacefli/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/19/nasa-awards-270-million-to-spacex-and-other-commercial-spacefli/#comments NASA has given its seal of approval (and a lot of money) to SpaceX and three other private companies, as part of its Commercial Crew Development (CCDev2) initiative -- a program designed to spur the development of U.S. commercial spaceflight. The agency awarded a total of $270 million to the four lucky winners, with Boeing receiving $92.3 million to help develop its CST-100 capsule design, and the Sierra Nevada Corporation garnering $80 million, which will go toward its shuttle-like Dream Chaser craft. The smallest prize ($22 million) went to Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin, which is reportedly looking to create a cone-shaped craft capable of carrying crew members into the abyss. And then, of course, there's SpaceX, the proud recipient of a cool $75 million in NASA funds. The California-based company has already successfully launched its Falcon 9 rocket and Dragon capsule, and is currently working on the Falcon Heavy -- a 22-story craft heralded as the "world's most powerful rocket." NASA's extra dough should give a little boost to SpaceX's projects, but the funds are contingent upon improvements in Dragon's crew-carrying capacities, to be carried out over the next year. If all goes well, we may see one of these companies launch an intergalactic 'taxi' service by the middle of the decade. Saddle up!

NASA awards $270 million to SpaceX and other commercial spaceflight ventures originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 19 Apr 2011 16:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blue originBlueOriginBoeingcapsuleCCDEV2Commercial Crew Development Programcommercial space flightCommercialCrewDevelopmentProgramCommercialSpaceFlightCST-100developmentdragondream chaserDreamChaserfalcon 9Falcon HeavyFalcon9FalconHeavyjeff bezosJeffBezoslaunchmoneyNASASierra Nevadasierra nevada corporationSierraNevadaSierraNevadaCorporationspacespace exploration technologiesspacecraftSpaceExplorationTechnologiesSpaceXThe Boeing Co.TheBoeingCo.Tue, 19 Apr 2011 16:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Boeing's biggest jet takes flight, promises lowest 'seat mile' cost of any commercial airliner]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/22/boeings-biggest-jet-takes-flight-promises-lowest-seat-mile-c/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/22/boeings-biggest-jet-takes-flight-promises-lowest-seat-mile-c/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/22/boeings-biggest-jet-takes-flight-promises-lowest-seat-mile-c/#comments Boeing took a huge -- both literally and figuratively -- step in the development of the largest commercial jet in its history when the 747-8 took to the skies for the first time. Granted, the airframe's cargo version has already logged over 1,600 hours up in the air, but putting the 250-foot passenger plane with a 224-foot wingspan -- 19 feet longer and 13 feet wider than the gargantuan 747-400 -- through its first few paces without incident is no small feat. The 747-8 borrows some of the 787 Dreamliner's weight-trimming tech for better fuel efficiency and lower operational costs than older 747s and jumbo jet competition from Airbus. We just hope it didn't inherit the 787's penchant for delays as well. If all goes according to plan, the new jetliner should complete the 600 test flight hours needed for FAA certification in time to deliver the first 747-8s to customers by the end of the year. We doubt airlines will use the plane's extra space to give us shlubs riding coach any more legroom, but at least its improved all-around efficiency should make flying a little cheaper. PR's after the break.

Continue reading Boeing's biggest jet takes flight, promises lowest 'seat mile' cost of any commercial airliner

Boeing's biggest jet takes flight, promises lowest 'seat mile' cost of any commercial airliner originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Mar 2011 19:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>747747-8747-8 Intercontinental747-8Intercontinentalaircraftairlineairlinerairlinesairplaneairplanesbigbiggestboeingboeing 747boeing 747-8Boeing747Boeing747-8efficiencyefficientflightintercontinentaljetjetlinerjetslargestplaneplanestransporttransportationTue, 22 Mar 2011 19:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Boeing's new unmanned X-37B launches into orbit, won't come home until it finds Major Tom]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/08/boeings-new-unmanned-x-37b-launches-into-orbit-wont-come-home/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/08/boeings-new-unmanned-x-37b-launches-into-orbit-wont-come-home/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/08/boeings-new-unmanned-x-37b-launches-into-orbit-wont-come-home/#comments Model X-37B might look familiar to you -- it was the name of an autonomous space vehicle that took flight just about a year ago, orbited for a whopping eight months, and then successfully returned to our planet all by itself. Now a new version of the X-37B has blasted off to hang outside of the atmosphere for a while. The spacecraft left Cape Canaveral Launch Complex 41 down in Florida and hurtled to a low-Earth orbit with help of a Atlas V rocket. Boeing isn't saying exactly what it's doing up there, but we suspect this spaceship knows which way to go.

Continue reading Boeing's new unmanned X-37B launches into orbit, won't come home until it finds Major Tom

Boeing's new unmanned X-37B launches into orbit, won't come home until it finds Major Tom originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 Mar 2011 02:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlas vAtlasVautonomousboeingcape carnaveralCapeCarnaveralearthfloridalandinglaunchorbitrobotrocketshuttlespacespacecraftspaceshuttlesuccessfultransportationvehiclex-37bx37bTue, 08 Mar 2011 02:01:00 EST<![CDATA[US Navy's free-electron laser breaks another record, takes aim at missiles next]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/21/us-navys-free-electron-laser-breaks-another-record-takes-aim-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/21/us-navys-free-electron-laser-breaks-another-record-takes-aim-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/21/us-navys-free-electron-laser-breaks-another-record-takes-aim-a/#comments The US Navy's free-electron laser has broken a few records already, but it's just plowed through another fairly big one -- one that its creators say could put it on the fast track to actually being used to shoot down missiles. That particular record involved running the system for eight hours at 500 kilovolts, which is a level they've been trying to achieve for the past six years and, according to the researchers, "definitely shortens" the time frame for getting to their ultimate goal of 100 kilowatts. What's more, while this particular test didn't actually involve blowing anything up, the Navy seems confident that the laser will eventually be able to do just that, as it's just recently awarded Boeing a $163 million contract to package the laser in a weapons system that would be deployed on ships and be able to detect, track, and destroy missiles (or presumably anything else ). According the Office of Naval Research, the Navy hopes to meet that goal by 2015.

[Image: Wired / Danger Room]

US Navy's free-electron laser breaks another record, takes aim at missiles next originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Feb 2011 13:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boeingdeath rayDeathRayfree electron laserfree-electron laserFree-electronLaserFreeElectronLaserjefferson labsJeffersonLabslaserlaser weaponlasersLaserWeaponnavyus navyUsNavywargadgetweaponMon, 21 Feb 2011 13:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Boeing 787 Dreamliner delayed again, expectations still sky high]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/20/boeing-787-dreamliner-delayed-again-expectations-still-sky-high/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/20/boeing-787-dreamliner-delayed-again-expectations-still-sky-high/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/20/boeing-787-dreamliner-delayed-again-expectations-still-sky-high/#comments That's right, the 787 Dreamliner, which has airlines all aflutter over promises of increased fuel efficiency, has been delayed yet again. Boeing announced yesterday that customers can expect to see the plane in the third quarter of 2011: one in a long line of setbacks that have put it three years behind schedule. However, despite delays, it seems customer confidence hasn't waned. In fact, the New York Times reported that 787 buyers still find a summer release perfectly practical, leading to a three percent rise in Boeing stock. Trouble for the 787 started back in 2008, with the FAA warning of hacker vulnerability, followed by a 2009 discovery of structural weakness, and an on-board fire last November. Even with delays, and cancellation of at least 60 orders, the 787 still has about 850 pre-orders: more than any other mid-size commercial liner in history. So what's keeping the 787 Dreamliner afloat? Well, mostly promises of a 20 percent increase in fuel efficiency, thanks to a design that's 50 percent composite materials. Clearly, testing the 787 hasn't been a dream, but it seems nothing can keep this plane grounded for good.

Boeing 787 Dreamliner delayed again, expectations still sky high originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 05:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>787787 delays787 Dreamliner787Delays787DreamlineraircraftairlineairlinesairplaneairplanesBoeingBoeing 787Boeing787dreamlinerDreamliner delaysDreamlinerDelaysjetjetsplaneplanesThu, 20 Jan 2011 05:52:00 EST<![CDATA[US opts to derez virtual fence along Mexico border, replacing it with more affordable measures]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/15/us-opts-to-derez-virtual-fence-along-mexico-border-replacing-it/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/15/us-opts-to-derez-virtual-fence-along-mexico-border-replacing-it/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/15/us-opts-to-derez-virtual-fence-along-mexico-border-replacing-it/#comments Remember that hugely ambitious "virtual fence" that the US Homeland Security department was so keen on blowing a few billion dollars on? Well, following a bunch of setbacks and delays in its development, it's now been determined to be too darn expensive and is being scrapped. That's not without splashing some cash, however, as it's estimated that a billion dollars has already been spent on installing sensor towers along a 53-mile stretch of the Arizona border with Mexico. The plan now is to redirect funds to more conventional (and commercially available) surveillance measures, such as thermal imaging and unmanned aerial drones, which is estimated to cost $750 million to cover the remaining 323 miles of Arizona's border. Whatever happens, keeping illegal immigration and contraband smuggling to a minimum isn't going to be a cheap task. Almost makes you wonder if this isn't a problem better solved by non-technological means.

US opts to derez virtual fence along Mexico border, replacing it with more affordable measures originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 15 Jan 2011 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boeingborderborder patrolborder securityBorderPatrolBorderSecuritycancelleddetectionexpensivefencegovernmentHomeland SecurityHomelandSecuritymexicosbinetsecuritystatesurveillanceususavirtualvirtual fenceVirtualFenceSat, 15 Jan 2011 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Spilled coffee in 777 cockpit leads to inadvertent hijack warning, FAA-mandated sippy cups look likely]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/spilled-coffee-in-777-cockpit-leads-to-inadvertent-hijack-warnin/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/spilled-coffee-in-777-cockpit-leads-to-inadvertent-hijack-warnin/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/spilled-coffee-in-777-cockpit-leads-to-inadvertent-hijack-warnin/#commentsSpilled coffee in 777 cockpit leads to inadvertant hijack warning, FAA-mandated sippy cups looking likely If you've ever spilled coffee on a piece of electronics, maybe a keyboard or even a laptop, spare a thought for the pilot of United Airlines flight 940, outbound from Chicago and heading to Frankfurt. Not long after takeoff the pilot apparently dumped a cup of Joe onto the communications panel in the cockpit and things rapidly went downhill from there. The crew inadvertently sent a code 7500, which indicates that the plane is being hijacked and, as you can imagine, that led to a lot of unwanted attention. It's not clear whether the equipment malfunctioned and sent the code or the pilot, likely struggling with a scalded lap, fat-fingered things on the panel. Either way, the flight diverted to Toronto and, rather tragically, the passengers were all sent back to Chicago to try again the next day.

Spilled coffee in 777 cockpit leads to inadvertent hijack warning, FAA-mandated sippy cups look likely originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 10:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>777air travelairlineairlinerAirTravelboeingcoffeehijackunitedunited airlinesUnitedAirlinesWed, 05 Jan 2011 10:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Boeing's Spectrolab subsidiary set to mass produce 39.2 percent efficient solar cells]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/27/boeings-spectrolab-subsidiary-set-to-mass-produce-39-2-percent/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/27/boeings-spectrolab-subsidiary-set-to-mass-produce-39-2-percent/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/27/boeings-spectrolab-subsidiary-set-to-mass-produce-39-2-percent/#comments Boeing's Spectrolab subsidiary has been working on making solar cells more and more efficient for years now, and it looks like it's now set to put its latest record-breaking cells into mass production. Those come in the form of the company's new C3MJ+ solar cells, which boast an average conversion efficiency of 39.2 percent, making them the most efficient mass produced cells to date. What's more, Spectrolab says that since the new cells are so similar to its current C3MJ production cells, it should be relatively easy for customers already using those to upgrade to the new cells. Still no word on a price, it seems, but the new cells should be available in January. And, yes, Spectrolab is also hard at work on breaking its own record -- it hopes to crack the 40 percent mark later in 2011.

Boeing's Spectrolab subsidiary set to mass produce 39.2 percent efficient solar cells originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 27 Nov 2010 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boeingC3MJC3MJ+photovoltaicphotovoltaicssolarsolar cellssolar powerSolarCellsSolarPowerspectrolabSat, 27 Nov 2010 16:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Boeing installs 50Mbps eXConnect broadband on 737]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/21/boeing-installs-50mbps-exconnect-broadband-on-737/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/21/boeing-installs-50mbps-exconnect-broadband-on-737/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/21/boeing-installs-50mbps-exconnect-broadband-on-737/#commentsCathay Pacific has already promised that it would bring 50Mbps in-flight broadband to some of its fleet by 2012, but it looks like Boeing has beat it to the punch to become the first to actually take the service to the skies. The company has just announced the first certification and installation of Panasonic Avionics' eXConnect in-flight internet service in one of its Boeing Business Jet 737 aircraft, which will initially be used by Panasonic itself for ongoing testing and demonstrations. That's the same system that will be used by Cathay Pacific, and consists a fuselage-mounted antenna that communicates with a network of satellites to deliver speeds of up to 50Mbps, or about a hundred times faster than most competing in-flight WiFi. Unfortunately, there's still no word on any further expansion to commercial aircraft, so Cathay Pacific may well still wind up being the first in that respect. Full press release is after the break.

Continue reading Boeing installs 50Mbps eXConnect broadband on 737

Boeing installs 50Mbps eXConnect broadband on 737 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 21 Oct 2010 19:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>50mbpsboeingbroadbandexconnectin-flightin-flight internetin-flight wifiIn-flightInternetIn-flightWifiPanasonic AvionicsPanasonicAvionicswifiThu, 21 Oct 2010 19:41:00 EST<![CDATA[SolarEagle will soar in the stratosphere for five years, kinda looks like a coathanger]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/18/solareagle-will-soar-in-the-stratosphere-for-five-years-kinda-l/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/18/solareagle-will-soar-in-the-stratosphere-for-five-years-kinda-l/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/18/solareagle-will-soar-in-the-stratosphere-for-five-years-kinda-l/#comments
We like airplanes, but we've always felt really boxed in by the short flight times fossil fuels force us into. Apparently DARPA was feeling the crunch too, so they've slid Boeing a cool $89 mil to develop a plane that stays in the air for five years. The 435-foot-wingspan'd SolarEagle will, unsurprisingly, use photovoltaics to help keep it at 65,000 feet, where Boeing spokesman Pat O'Neil says it will "perform persistent communications, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions," which we hope means it will just be hanging around doing "how's the weather down there" tweets all day long. SolarEagle's first demo flight is slated for 2014.

SolarEagle will soar in the stratosphere for five years, kinda looks like a coathanger originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Sep 2010 20:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airplaneairplanesboeingdarpadefenselong flightsLongFlightsplanereconnaissancesolareagleSat, 18 Sep 2010 20:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Visualized: Boeing's CST-100 gets you and six friends to space... for cheap!]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/22/visualized-boeings-cst-100-gets-you-and-six-friends-to-space/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/22/visualized-boeings-cst-100-gets-you-and-six-friends-to-space/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/22/visualized-boeings-cst-100-gets-you-and-six-friends-to-space/#comments It's not expected to make its first jaunt to outer space before 2014, but Boeing's "low-cost" Crew Space Transportation-100 (CST-100) will allow up to seven Earthlings to travel up to 100 kilometers above the Earth's surface. The best part? Once you spend up to seven months docked at the International Space Station, you'll rely on "the aid of parachutes [as you head] to an airbag-cushioned landing on dry ground." Something tells us the crew of Jackass will be all over this in just a few years.

Visualized: Boeing's CST-100 gets you and six friends to space... for cheap! originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Jul 2010 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awesomeBigelow AerospaceBigelowAerospaceBoeingcapsuleCrew Space Transportation-100CrewSpaceTransportation-100CST-100galaxynasaspacespace capsulespace travelSpaceCapsulespacecraftSpaceTraveltraveltravelingVisualizedwildThu, 22 Jul 2010 20:40:00 EST<![CDATA[ANA's Gundam Jet embarks on maiden voyage (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/18/anas-gundam-jet-embarks-on-maiden-voyage-video/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/18/anas-gundam-jet-embarks-on-maiden-voyage-video/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/18/anas-gundam-jet-embarks-on-maiden-voyage-video/#comments In case you weren't already aware, the island nation of Japan regards the thirtieth anniversary of their imaginary anime robot warriors as kind of a big deal, and so it seems fitting that they'd deck out a similarly gigantic flying object to match: the Boeing 777. All Nippon Airways (ANA) decked out the plus-size 777-300 model with full-size Gundam decals on either side, and the jumbojet made its first Tokyo-Osaka trip this weekend after a thorough photo shoot by reporters. We'd advise you to watch the skilled pilots take off and land after the break, but we'll warn you that you're in for mild disappointment -- at no point does a giant beam-saber-wielding robot burst out of the aluminum alloy frame.

Continue reading ANA's Gundam Jet embarks on maiden voyage (video)

ANA's Gundam Jet embarks on maiden voyage (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 18 Jul 2010 12:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sometimes, in the seat of our despair (which almost always corresponds with a viewing of The Real Housewives of New Jersey), we reflect on the sorry state of the world and note that the one thing we don't have to doubt is that history is marching us towards a mechanized slaughter that will make World War I look like Burning Man (the rave, not the actual burning people). Sure, it never occurred to anyone to maybe figure out how to cap an undersea oil well, but at least we are making headway in our development of autonomous, long range aircraft (you know, for shooting people and eavesdropping and whatnot). Our latest example of a world gone mad comes courtesy of Boeing, and it's called Phantom Eye. The unmanned aircraft system looks something like a bowling pin with wings and can spend up to four days at 65,000 feet. Also featured on the craft is a hydrogen propulsion system that promises great fuel economy, and whose only byproduct is water. At the unveiling ceremony in St. Louis, Boeing Phantom Works president Darryl Davis noted that the "capabilities inherent" in its design "will offer game-changing opportunities for our military, civil and commercial customers." Awesome! Look for the device later this summer, when it begins a series of ground and taxi tests in preparation for its first flight early next year.

Continue reading Boeing Phantom Eye unmanned spy plane stays aloft four days, sort of bums us out

Boeing Phantom Eye unmanned spy plane stays aloft four days, sort of bums us out originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 13 Jul 2010 13:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aircraftautonomousboeingboeing phantom worksBoeingPhantomWorksdronehydrogenphantom eyePhantomEyetransportationuasuavunmanned aerial vehicleUnmannedAerialVehiclewargadgetTue, 13 Jul 2010 13:21:00 EST<![CDATA[X-51A WaveRider scramjet hits Mach 5, sets record for longest hypersonic flight]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/28/x-51a-waverider-scramjet-hits-mach-5-sets-record-for-longest-hy/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/28/x-51a-waverider-scramjet-hits-mach-5-sets-record-for-longest-hy/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/28/x-51a-waverider-scramjet-hits-mach-5-sets-record-for-longest-hy/#comments
It might be a bit difficult to make out, but what you're looking at above is the X-51A WaveRider scramjet in the process of setting a record for the longest hypersonic flight. That happened around 10 a.m. on May 26th, when the rocket was dropped from the wing of a B-52 bomber at a height of 50,000 feet and proceeded to fly at Mach 5 for more than three-and-a-half minutes, blowing away the previous record of just twelve seconds. If you can believe it, however, the aircraft actually fell somewhat short of its goal -- Boeing and the Air Force were hoping the WaveRider would be able to fly for 300 seconds and hit Mach 6, but something apparently caused it to lose acceleration towards the end. Head on past the break for the video, we assure you it's still pretty impressive.

Continue reading X-51A WaveRider scramjet hits Mach 5, sets record for longest hypersonic flight

X-51A WaveRider scramjet hits Mach 5, sets record for longest hypersonic flight originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 May 2010 09:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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