Portable Solar Phone Charger for only $5..Really?

      Instructables user ASCAS has shared a project with worldwide viewers on how to make a solar-powered phone charger for simply $5. It's as small as a smartphone and does not include a back-up battery, which is more of a hassle to carry than being environmental friendly. ASCAS has tested the device on both Apple and Android devices and it has performed well with both devices.

       Materials include a 6V Mini Solar Panel, a torn apart 12V USB charger unit, the smartphone (for testing), phone's charger cable, and a flexible and foldable plastic card. With these materials, you will need a hot glue gun, a 30W soldering iron, and a leatherman multitool. You will need to assemble the parts together and also add a stand onto the solar panel to charge your phone with convenience. 

Clear instructions complete with photos are to be shown here. 

Recreation: Building a Solar-Powered Plane

       For those arts and crafts fans, get ready to take a new level by building your very own solar-powered plane. Instructables user jeffmazter406 have provided a step-by-step guide, along with detailed instructions and photos, in creating one, which is a similar yet mini version of the Solar Impulse plane. It also links to two Powerpoint presentations by Texas A&M University to help walk you through the procedures.
     

         This project has been constructed by Newman Smith High School students with the help of faculty in Carrollton, Texas and has been sponsored by the Texas A&M University Society of Flight Test Engineers. The team, in addition, notes that "the project is not for the beginner as it gets complicated." However, if you may feel the need to want to experience and create a solar-powered plane, click here.