Space-age airships are set to replace lorries, trains and even cargo ships for carrying goods around the world, under a project being led by NASA.


The first prototype of the new airships is expected to make its maiden voyage next year while scientists leading the project predict airships capable of carrying hundreds of tonnes of cargo at a time will be available by the end of the decade.

Using materials and aerodynamics knowledge gained from the space-race, engineers at NASA are helping to develop a new generation of airships they believe will replace lorries, trains and even cargo ships for carrying goods around the world.