The ship could circumnavigate the globe in 5 years without refueling.

After leaving Singapore, the Energy Observer made a stop in Vietnam, its 73rd and final destination in Southeast Asia. With the aim of researching and inspiring sustainable energy development, the Energy Observer's crew demonstrated its automated zero-emission system to hundreds of passengers.

Energy Observer is the first autonomous, zero-emission hydrogen spacecraft, utilizing three energy sources: solar, seawater, and wind. The spacecraft can orbit the Earth for over five years without refueling.

The Energy Observer has a unique design. It was upgraded from a legendary catamaran, a sailing vessel that won the Round the World race with Sir Peter Blake. The Energy Observer's twin-hull design helps reduce water resistance. The vessel is 30 meters long, 12 meters wide, and can reach a top speed of 14 knots.

The vessel has a total of over 200 solar panels placed throughout its hull to capture energy from the sun. The Energy Observer uses three types of solar panels, with different panels used depending on the installation location. The panels have a textured surface to increase light absorption, allowing people to walk comfortably on top.

The Energy Observer is equipped with two large masts powered by electric motors. The sails can be hoisted to keep the vessel running when battery power is insufficient. In addition, the vessel has hydrogen storage tanks on either side of its hull. Hydrogen is produced directly on board using seawater as fuel.

According to Beatrice Cordiano, an estimated 1,955,000 boats travel across the world every day. These boats account for 3% of global emissions. Therefore, maritime transport has a significant impact on global warming. Energy Observer wants to demonstrate to the world that they can travel continuously without using fuel.

Marin Jarry, the 40-year-old captain, gave a presentation to visitors about the ship's mission. He introduced the technologies and environmental research that the Energy Observer is implementing.

"The ship uses all three power systems alternately. So we never worry about running out of energy," Marin told Travellive. He shared that the ship is equipped with a good navigation system to avoid storms, as the Energy Observer is very difficult to maneuver in adverse weather conditions.

Inside the Energy Obsever is a small kitchen along with private sleeping quarters for the crew. The lower deck is equipped with various modern machines to aid in research and analysis of the surrounding environment. The interior space of the vessel is sufficient for about 10 people to live in, serving as a research, operating, and resting area for the crew. The vessel also has two refrigerators and a large storage room.

Captain Marin Jarry explained the ship's hydrogen propulsion system. With just a few computer operations, the system filters and vaporizes salt from seawater, then provides energy for the ship's galley and electricity. The Energy Observer uses large-capacity batteries to store a significant amount of solar energy.

According to the plan, the crew will document issues related to plastic pollution and recycling, UNESCO biosphere reserves, near-shore wind turbines, low-carbon energy, and the salinity of the Mekong River. In addition, they will continuously photograph and film documentaries about the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation in Vietnam.

Anh Thi