Fmoshermw
Elite
- Joined
- Dec 9, 2020
- Messages
- 934
Might not be the fastest but it would actually work. Modern sailboats' sails are really more like airfoils. They produce a component of "lift" that can almost always be propulsive. Just a matter of putting it at the best Angle of Attack for the forward speed and wind speed conditions at the moment. Those giant "wings" sticking up on that artists' conception are likely computer controlled to always have them at the optimal AoA for propulsive force. Best guess on average speed in the open ocean would be like 10 KT. Compare with like 24 KT for a cargo or cruise ship.
An auxiliary power plant (not unlike on a sailboat) would be needed to maneuver in/around ports and docking. The long haul across the sea would all be an energy freebie and clean.
Sorry-Aero Engineering degree kicking in.
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