Italian water transportation company Jet Capsule unveils their latest seafaring concept, the “UFO”. Standing for unidentified floating object, the saucer-like unit is an energy autonomous vessel capable of estimated speeds of up to three knots (3.5mph). “UFO” measures 12.5 meters in diameter, and uses various systems to take advantage of all natural elements. The floating object includes two habitable areas – other than the outer deck. A main level area houses the kitchen, and a floor access point connects to a sub-level bathroom and underwater viewing area. Jet Capsule is currently seeking investors to develop a working “UFO” prototype.
UFO is a living floating house which can move around the world with leisurely maximum speed of 3.5 knots (6.5 km/h, 4 mph), using a waterjet-propelled Torqeedo Deep Blue 1800 electric motor.
This motor is connected to a battery that draws energy generated from 40 sq. m (430 sq. ft.) of solar panels in a closable lid atop the structure.
Additional energy sources can be provided through optional wind and water turbines located on the top and below the main disc of the UFO, respectively, creating enough power to operate the home and motor.
A water generator would be used for converting rain or seawater to fresh drinking water, as well as watering a vegetable garden located on a deck that encircles the structure and measures 12.5 m (41 ft) in diameter.
Two half-spherical shells of fiberglass make up the two stories of the interior housing, with flexible floor plans for various configurations.
The spherical-shaped home will consist of a transformable kitchen and dining/living area on a 20-sq. m (215-sq. ft.) top level, with stairs leading down to a 10-sq. m (107-sq. ft.) submerged lower level with bathroom and bedroom surrounded by a large window for viewing sea life.
To keep the craft stable, the UFO uses a special elastic anchor system. “The main structure of the floating object can be aligned with the compass, keeping the position angle oriented on the desired cardinal direction, even in rough sea conditions.
