Windsurf airbag system based on ESA technology

The airbag system on Raphaëla Le Gouvello’s windsurfer is seen here in tests done in France after mounting of the final version on the board. The picture illustrates how the inflated airbag system blocks a complete 180-degree turnover. The airbag using ESA technology is inflated within seconds and has a total inflated volume of 170 litres, sufficient to control the 550 kg heavy board. The specially built surfboard was used by Raphaëla le Gouvello to cross the Pacific Ocean.