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The book provides a comprehensive history of aviation, from the early experiments with balloons to the development of airships and airplanes. It highlights the contributions of pioneers such as the Montgolfier brothers, Sir George Cayley, and the Wright brothers, who overcame numerous challenges to achieve controlled, sustained flight. The book also discusses the importance of the internal-combustion engine in the development of aviation and the role of inventors such as Gottlieb Daimler and Levassor in improving the engine. Additionally, it mentions the use of airships and airplanes in World War I, including the Zeppelin raids on England and the development of anti-aircraft guns and fighter planes. The book concludes by noting the significant progress made in aviation during the war and the growing importance of air power in modern warfare. It also explores the development of new technologies, such as the synchronizer gear, and the heroism and skill of airmen, such as Captain Ball, who destroyed 41 enemy machines and was awarded the Victoria Cross. The book also touches on the future of aviation, noting the rapid progress made in the field and the potential for air travel to become a safe and efficient mode of transportation. Overall, the book provides a detailed and engaging history of aviation, highlighting the key figures, events, and technologies that have shaped the field.
The chapter discusses the history of aviation, from the early experiments with balloons to the development of airships and airplanes. It highlights the contributions of pioneers such as the Montgolfier brothers, Sir George Cayley, and the Wright brothers, who overcame numerous challenges to achieve controlled, sustained flight. The chapter also touches on the importance of the internal-combustion engine in the development of aviation and the role of inventors such as Gottlieb Daimler and Levassor in improving the engine. Additionally, it mentions the use of airships and airplanes in World War I, including the Zeppelin raids on England and the development of anti-aircraft guns and fighter planes. The chapter concludes by noting the significant progress made in aviation during the war and the growing importance of air power in modern warfare.
The chapter discusses the invention of the balloon by the Montgolfier brothers, who were French paper-makers. They experimented with filling paper bags with smoke and watching them rise, which led to the development of the first hot-air balloon. The brothers' experiments were successful, and they were able to launch a balloon that rose to a height of 7000 feet. The chapter also mentions the discovery of hydrogen gas by Henry Cavendish and its use in inflating balloons. The Montgolfiers' invention of the balloon marked the beginning of a new era in aviation and paved the way for the development of airships and airplanes.
The chapter discusses the first man to ascend in a balloon, marking a significant milestone in the history of aviation. After the successful balloon flights with animals, it was time for a human to take the risk. M. Pilatre de Rozier, a French gentleman, volunteered to make the pioneer ascent. He superintended the construction of his balloon with great care and made a trial ascent with the balloon held captive by a long rope. On November 21, 1783, accompanied by the Marquis d'Arlandes, he made a successful ascent, reaching a height of about half a mile above sea-level. The balloon drifted over Paris, causing anxiety for the aeronauts, but they managed to land safely about six miles from their starting-point. This achievement paved the way for further advancements in ballooning and aviation.
The chapter discusses the first balloon ascent in England, which was carried out by Lunardi, an Italian, in September 1784. Lunardi's balloon was a "Charlier" type, modeled after the hydrogen-inflated balloon built by Professor Charles, and it resembled an enormous pear in shape. The ascent was successful, with Lunardi reaching a considerable altitude and sailing over numerous housetops in a northerly direction. He eventually came down near a Hertfordshire village, about 30 miles north of London. The chapter also mentions the interest and excitement generated by the ascent, with a crowd of nearly 200,000 people gathering to witness the event, including the Prince of Wales.
The chapter discusses the life and contributions of Charles Green, a British aeronaut who is considered the "Father of British Aeronauts". Green proposed the use of coal-gas in balloons, which was a significant innovation at the time. He conducted experiments and built a balloon that was able to travel long distances, including a notable journey from London to Germany. Green's work paved the way for the development of modern airships and his legacy continues to be celebrated in the field of aeronautics.
The chapter discusses the invention and development of the parachute, a device that allows for a safe and controlled descent from a great height. The word "parachute" comes from the French language, derived from "parer" meaning to parry and "chute" meaning fall. The first use of a parachute was by M. Blanchard, who used it to descend a dog from a balloon, and later by M. Garnerin, who made a successful descent himself. The chapter also mentions the use of parachutes in modern times, including a thrilling descent from an airship by Major Maitland and a descent from an aeroplane by M. Pegoud. The parachute is considered an essential part of an airman's equipment and is expected to become a standard feature in aeroplanes and airships.
This chapter discusses the history of British inventors of airships, including Mr. Stanley Spencer, who built the first English airship. The Spencer airship had a cigar-shaped balloon, a small engine, and a screw propeller, and was able to lift only one person of light weight. The chapter also mentions other inventors, such as Dr. Barton and Mr. E. T. Willows, who designed and built airships. The development of airships in Britain was slower than in other countries, but eventually, companies like Vickers began to construct airships for the Navy. The chapter highlights the challenges and successes of these early British airship inventors and their contributions to the development of airship technology.
The chapter discusses the early attempts to steer a balloon, which was a significant challenge in the development of aviation. For nearly a century after the invention of the Montgolfier and Charlier balloons, progress was slow in steering the huge craft, and all that the balloonist could do was to make the balloon ascend or descend at will, but not guide its direction of flight. Inventors tried various methods, including hoisting a huge sail at the side of the envelope and using a rudder, but these attempts were unsuccessful. It was not until the invention of the internal-combustion engine that it became possible to solve the problem of constructing a steerable balloon. The chapter highlights the work of pioneers such as M. Giffard, who made one of the first serious attempts to steer a balloon using engine power in 1852, and Dupuy du Lonie, who invented a system of suspension links that connected the car to the envelope. The development of the dirigible airship, which could be steered and controlled, marked a significant milestone in the history of aviation.
The chapter discusses the life and career of Count Zeppelin, a German inventor and engineer who is best known for his development of rigid airships. Born in 1838, Zeppelin was a military officer who became interested in aeronautics and began experimenting with airships in the late 19th century. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, including financial difficulties and accidents, Zeppelin persevered and eventually developed a successful rigid airship design. His airships were used for both military and civilian purposes, and he became a celebrated figure in Germany. However, during World War I, Zeppelin's airships were used for bombing raids on England, which ultimately proved to be unsuccessful and led to the development of anti-aircraft defenses. The chapter concludes by noting that Zeppelin's legacy is complex, with his airships being remembered both as a symbol of German military power and as a failed experiment in aerial warfare.
The chapter discusses the construction of a Zeppelin airship, which is a rigid airship made of specially light metal, aluminum alloy, and wood, with a waterproof fabric covering the hull. The airship has a framework that maintains its shape and rigidity, and is divided into numerous compartments, each containing a balloon filled with hydrogen gas. The crew and motors are carried in cars slung fore and aft, and the ship is propelled by three engines, each of 170 horsepower. The airship also has vertical and horizontal planes for steering and control. The chapter provides a detailed description of the airship's design and features, including its size, shape, and propulsion system.
The Semi-rigid Air-ship chapter discusses the characteristics and features of semi-rigid airships, which are a type of airship that is dependent on its framework and gas envelope for its form. The chapter highlights the advantages and disadvantages of semi-rigid airships, including their portability and ability to be quickly deflated and transported. The Lebaudy airships are given as an example of semi-rigid vessels, and their design and features are described in detail. The chapter also mentions the use of semi-rigid airships for military and naval purposes, and notes that they are more popular in France than in other countries.
The chapter discusses the characteristics of a non-rigid balloon, which relies entirely on the pressure of the gas to maintain its shape. The safety of this type of vessel depends on the maintenance of gas pressure, and it is liable to be quickly put out of action if the envelope becomes torn. Despite this, non-rigid balloons have advantages such as ease of deflation and transportation, making them suitable for short overland voyages or sporting and commercial purposes. The chapter also describes the Parseval non-rigid air-ship, which is considered a marvel of modern aeronautical construction, with features such as a rubber-texture fabric envelope, compensators to maintain balance, and a propeller that can be set to work when needed.
The Zeppelin and Gotha raids on England during World War I resulted in significant loss of life and damage to property. The initial response to these attacks was inadequate, with the public demanding more effective measures to counter the threat. The authorities eventually implemented a system of anti-aircraft guns and squadrons of aeroplanes, which led to a decrease in the number of successful raids. The Zeppelins were forced to fly at higher altitudes, reducing their accuracy, and the Gothas, although more destructive, were also vulnerable to attack. The British eventually adopted a policy of reprisals, conducting air raids on German cities. The Zeppelin raids continued until 1917, when the British navy scored several successes against them, and the Germans eventually switched to using Gotha aeroplanes for their raids.
The chapter discusses the early attempts in aviation, highlighting the desire to fly that has been present in humanity for centuries. It mentions how early writers and thinkers, such as Horace and Homer, dreamed of flight, but it wasn't until the present century that these dreams were fulfilled. The chapter also touches on the idea that early pioneers of aviation believed that to fly, one must provide themselves with a pair of wings similar to those of a large bird. However, it was discovered that the muscles of a man are insufficient to bear him in the air, and it wasn't until the invention of the motor engine that flight became possible. The chapter concludes by stating that the science of aviation has been greatly indebted to early inventors, who paved the way for the development of modern aeroplanes.
This chapter discusses the life and contributions of a pioneer in aviation, Sir George Cayley, who is considered the inventor of the aeroplane in its modern form. Cayley's ideas and designs were well ahead of his time, and he is credited with laying the foundation for the development of modern aeroplanes. The chapter also mentions the work of other inventors, such as Santos-Dumont, who made significant contributions to the field of aviation. Additionally, the chapter touches on the importance of the internal-combustion engine in the development of aeroplanes and the role of inventors like Gottlieb Daimler and Levassor in improving the engine.
This chapter discusses the concept of "human birds" and the early experiments in aviation. It highlights the work of pioneers such as Otto Lilienthal, who made significant contributions to the development of gliders, and Octave Chanute, who made flights in various types of gliding machines. The chapter also mentions the work of other inventors, including Sir Hiram Maxim, who designed an aeroplane driven by a steam-engine, and the Wright brothers, who conducted secret experiments in aviation. The invention of the internal-combustion engine is also discussed, and its impact on the development of aviation is highlighted.
The chapter discusses the similarities and differences between the aeroplane and the bird, highlighting how inventors of flying machines have modeled their craft after the bird's body and wings. It explains how the bird's wing is curved, or cambered, and how this curve allows it to produce lift. The chapter also describes how the aeroplane's planes are similarly cambered, but notes that the aeroplane does not fly in the same way as a bird, instead using a propeller to generate forward motion. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the importance of understanding the principles of flight and how they are applied in the design of aeroplanes.
The chapter discusses the life and contributions of Sir Hiram Maxim, a British inventor of aeroplanes. Maxim, who is also known for designing the famous "Maxim" gun, worked on aeroplane designs as early as 1894 and proposed to drive his machine by a light steam-engine. His first machine, made in 1890, was designed to be guided by a double set of rails and was powered by a 300-horsepower steam-engine. Although his experiments were not entirely successful, Maxim's work proved that a lighter but more powerful engine was needed for aerial flight, and his designs paved the way for later inventors. The chapter also touches on the development of the internal-combustion engine, which revolutionized the science of flying, and the contributions of inventors such as Gottlieb Daimler and Levassor to the improvement of the engine.
The Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, conducted secret experiments in aviation, working towards constructing a flying machine that could truly soar through the air. They began by experimenting with gliders, achieving remarkable results and laying the foundation for their future work. The brothers' aeroplane design featured a system of wing warping, which allowed the pilot to control the machine's balance and steer it. They spent years perfecting their design, making gradual progress and learning from their failures. The invention of the petrol engine was a crucial factor in the development of aviation, and the Wright brothers' work was influenced by the progress made in this field. Their experiments and innovations ultimately led to the creation of a successful aeroplane, which would change the face of aviation forever.
The chapter discusses the development of the internal-combustion engine and its impact on the science of flying. The invention of the internal-combustion engine is attributed to Gottlieb Daimler, who experimented with models of a small motor engine in the 1880s. The engine was later improved upon by French engineers, including Levassor, who obtained the Daimler rights to construct similar engines in France. The internal-combustion engine revolutionized the science of flying by providing a light but powerful motor that could be used in aeroplanes. The development of the engine is closely tied to the development of the aeroplane, and the two are inseparable. The chapter also mentions the early pioneers of motorism in Britain, including the Hon. Evelyn Ellis and the Hon. C. S. Rolls, who introduced the "horseless carriage" to the country and demonstrated its capabilities.
The chapter discusses the internal-combustion engine, its development, and its role in aviation. The engine uses petrol as fuel, which is distilled from oil and has a high inflammability. The chapter explains the working of the engine, including the carburettor, cylinder, and piston. It also describes the different types of engines, such as the rotary-cylinder engine and the Gnome engine. The Gnome engine is a significant innovation in aviation, allowing for more efficient and powerful flight. The chapter also touches on the development of aeroplane engines, including the work of British inventors like Green and Sopwith. Additionally, it discusses the importance of cooling systems in engines and the use of radiators to prevent overheating. The chapter concludes by highlighting the significance of the internal-combustion engine in the development of aviation and its continued improvement over time.
The chapter discusses the aeroplane engine, its development, and its role in aviation. The internal-combustion engine is highlighted as a crucial component of the aeroplane, and its working is explained in detail. The chapter also touches on the history of the aeroplane engine, including the contributions of pioneers such as the Wright brothers and Henri Farman. The development of the Gnome engine is discussed, and its impact on aviation is emphasized. The chapter concludes by noting the significance of the aeroplane engine in the development of aviation and its continued improvement over time.
The chapter discusses the life and contributions of a famous British inventor of aviation engines, Mr. Green. Mr. Green's work on aviation engines began in 1909, and he proposed the use of coal-gas in balloons, which was a significant innovation at the time. He conducted experiments and built a balloon that was able to travel long distances, including a notable journey from London to Germany. Mr. Green's work paved the way for the development of modern airships and his legacy continues to be celebrated in the field of aeronautics. The chapter also mentions the use of Mr. Green's engines in various flights, including those of Colonel Cody and Harry Hawker, and highlights the significance of his contributions to the development of aviation.
The Wright Biplane, designed by Orville and Wilbur Wright, was a significant innovation in aviation. The biplane had two main planes, a chassis, and a system of launch rails. The Wrights used a unique method of launching their craft, which involved a weight suspended from a tower that towed the aeroplane rapidly forward along a rail. The biplane was equipped with two long-bladed wooden screws, or propellers, that were driven by an engine. The Wrights made several flights with their power-driven machine, achieving a distance of over 20 miles and staying aloft for over half an hour. The Wright Biplane's design and construction paved the way for modern aeroplanes, and its legacy continues to influence aviation today.
The Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, designed and built the Wright biplane, a significant innovation in aviation. The biplane had two main planes, a chassis, and a system of launch rails. The Wrights used a unique method of launching their craft, which involved a weight suspended from a tower that towed the aeroplane rapidly forward along a rail. The biplane was equipped with two long-bladed wooden screws, or propellers, that were driven by an engine. The Wrights made several flights with their power-driven machine, achieving a distance of over 20 miles and staying aloft for over half an hour. The Wright Biplane's design and construction paved the way for modern aeroplanes, and its legacy continues to influence aviation today.
The chapter discusses how the Wright brothers launched their biplane, which was a significant achievement in the history of aviation. The Wrights used a launching apparatus that consisted of a wooden tower with a weight suspended from it, which was used to tow the aeroplane rapidly forward along a rail. The aeroplane was equipped with a trolley that ran along the rail, and when the weight was released, it towed the aeroplane forward, giving it enough momentum to lift off the ground. The Wrights made several flights using this method, achieving distances of over 20 miles and staying aloft for over half an hour. The chapter also mentions the disadvantages of this system, including the fact that the launching apparatus was not portable and the aeroplane had to be towed back to the starting point if it was forced to land away from it.
The chapter discusses the life and achievements of Santos Dumont, a Brazilian aeronaut who made significant contributions to the development of aviation. In 1906, he made the first flight in Europe, flying his aeroplane, the "Bird of Prey", for 700 feet at a height of 15 feet. Dumont's experiments with airships and aeroplanes paved the way for modern aviation, and he is considered one of the pioneers of flight. The chapter also mentions his decision to take up aviation as a hobby, and his intention to use aeroplanes for pleasure, much like one would use a motor-car.
The chapter discusses the life and contributions of Louis Bleriot, a French airman who is considered the "Father of the Monoplane". Bleriot's name was on everyone's lips in connection with his wonderful records in flying and skilful feats of airmanship from 1906 to 1910. He is best known for being the first man to cross the English Channel by aeroplane in July 1909, winning a prize of L1000 offered by the Daily Mail. Bleriot's monoplane was a significant innovation in aviation, and he established a large factory in France and inaugurated a flying school at Pau. The monoplane's design and construction are described in detail, including its single main plane, elevating plane, and rudder. The chapter also mentions the advantages and disadvantages of the monoplane, including its greater speed and instability compared to the biplane.
The chapter discusses the life and achievements of Henri Farman, a French aviator who made significant contributions to the development of aviation. In 1907, Farman piloted the Voisin biplane, which was designed by the Voisin brothers. The Voisin biplane had several notable differences from the Wright brothers' biplane, including a single propeller and wheels instead of launching skids. Farman achieved great fame through his early flights, including winning the prize of L2000 for flying a circular kilometer and another substantial prize for remaining aloft for a quarter of an hour. He also made a cross-country flight from Chalons to Rheims, passing over hills, valleys, rivers, villages, and woods. The Voisin biplane was later modified by Farman, who dispensed with the vertical planes between the two main planes, which had been intended to increase stability but were found to be ineffective in strong side winds. Instead, Farman used a system of small movable planes, called ailerons, fixed at the extremities of the main planes, which were used for lateral stability.
The chapter discusses the life and contributions of Lieutenant J. W. Dunne, a British inventor and pioneer in aviation. Dunne's early experimental work was done on the Duke of Atholl's estate in Scotland, where he developed a unique aeroplane design with wings that stretched back in the form of the letter V. The machine had no tail and its elevating plane was dispensed with. Dunne's design was influenced by his observation of birds in flight, and he claimed that his aeroplane was practically uncapsizable. The chapter also mentions Dunne's work with the War Office and his eventual loss of financial support, but he continued to work on his design and made significant progress. In 1913, Dunne's aeroplane made its first public appearance at Hendon, piloted by Commander Felix, and it was later smashed up to prevent others from examining its design.
The chapter discusses the life and achievements of Colonel Cody, a British cowboy aeronaut who made significant contributions to the development of aviation. Cody was a pioneer in aviation, known for his daredevil stunts and innovative designs. He began his career as a showman and inventor, creating man-lifting kites and later turning his attention to aeroplane construction. Despite facing ridicule and skepticism, Cody persevered and eventually won the £5,000 prize offered by the British government for the Army trials for aeroplanes in 1912. He also made a notable attempt to fly around Britain in 1913, but sadly died in a crash during a practice flight for the event. Cody's legacy is remembered as a true pioneer in British aviation, and his contributions paved the way for future generations of aviators.
The chapter "Three Historic Flights" discusses the significant events in aviation history, including the "London to Manchester" flight, the "Round Britain" flight, and the "Water-plane flight round Great Britain". These events were sponsored by the Daily Mail and marked important milestones in the development of aviation. The chapter also highlights the role of Lord Northcliffe and the Daily Mail in promoting aviation and providing prizes for achievements in the field. The story of Colonel Cody, a British cowboy aeronaut, is also mentioned, who won the £5,000 prize offered by the British government for the Army trials for aeroplanes in 1912. Additionally, the chapter touches on the development of aviation engines, including the Green engine, which played a crucial role in the success of British aviators.
The chapter discusses the history of aviation, from the early experiments with balloons to the development of airships and airplanes. It highlights the contributions of pioneers such as the Montgolfier brothers, Sir George Cayley, and the Wright brothers, who overcame numerous challenges to achieve controlled, sustained flight. The chapter also touches on the importance of the internal-combustion engine in the development of aviation and the role of inventors such as Gottlieb Daimler and Levassor in improving the engine. Additionally, it mentions the use of airships and airplanes in World War I, including the Zeppelin raids on England and the development of anti-aircraft guns and fighter planes. The chapter concludes by noting the significant progress made in aviation during the war and the growing importance of air power in modern warfare.
The chapter discusses the hydroplane, also known as the water-plane, which is an aeroplane fitted with floats instead of wheels, allowing it to take off and land on water. The construction of a hydroplane requires great skill, as it must be able to leave the water easily, preserve lateral balance, and offer minimal resistance in the air. The chapter explains the technical challenges and considerations involved in designing and building a hydroplane, including the type of floats used, the fore-and-aft balance of the machine, and the propeller setting. It also mentions the achievements of pioneers such as Harry Hawker, who made a notable attempt to fly around Britain in a hydroplane, and the development of hydroplanes for military and naval use.
This chapter discusses the life and contributions of a famous British inventor of the water-plane. The inventor, Mr. Sopwith, designed and built the water-plane that Harry Hawker used in his attempt to fly around Britain. Mr. Sopwith's life story is a romance, from his early interest in mechanics to his becoming a proficient pilot and winning several prizes for his flying achievements. He eventually retired from flying to focus on constructing machines, and his company, the Sopwith Aviation Company, has produced several high-quality aircraft, including the Sopwith biplane, which has set several records for height and speed.
The chapter discusses the development and use of sea-planes for warfare, highlighting their importance in naval aviation. The British government recognized the potential of sea-planes and encouraged their development, with companies like Short Brothers, Sopwith Aviation, and Roe building high-class machines for sea work. The Royal Naval Air Service (R.N.A.S.) played a significant role in the war, conducting raids on German naval bases and engaging enemy airships. The chapter also mentions the development of fighting water-planes capable of engaging and destroying large dirigible air-ships. The British government's investment in sea-planes and the R.N.A.S. paid off, as they were able to gain aerial supremacy at sea and conduct successful raids and reconnaissance missions.
The chapter discusses the life and achievements of Mr. A. V. Roe, a British inventor and constructor of aeroplanes, who is credited with being the first man to fly in Britain. Roe's early experiments with flight were conducted in secrecy, and he eventually developed a successful triplane design. He later turned his attention to biplanes and achieved great success, including setting a British height record. Roe's company, Avro, produced high-quality aircraft, and he was a pioneer in the field of aviation. The chapter also mentions the work of other British inventors and constructors, such as Sopwith and Green, who made significant contributions to the development of aviation in Britain.
The Royal Flying Corps and Royal Naval Air Service were established in 1912, with the Royal Flying Corps consisting of naval and military "wings". The corps was headquartered at Eastchurch, where both naval and military officers were trained in aviation. The present-day sea-plane was yet to come, and naval pilots shared the land-going aeroplanes of their military brethren. The Royal Flying Corps and Royal Naval Air Service played a crucial role in World War I, with the Royal Naval Air Service conducting raids on German naval bases and engaging enemy airships. The war drove the development of aviation, with the British Government fostering the growth of the new arm by all means in their power. The Royal Flying Corps and Royal Naval Air Service made significant contributions to the war effort, including the development of new technologies such as the synchronizer gear, which allowed machine guns to be fired through the propeller of an aeroplane. The corps also played a key role in the development of aerial photography and reconnaissance, with thousands of photographs being taken of enemy dispositions by means of cameras built into aeroplanes.
The chapter discusses the role of aeroplanes in World War I, highlighting their significance in the war effort and the impact they had on the outcome of the conflict. The author notes that the war drove the development of aviation, with the British Government fostering the growth of the new arm by all means in their power. The chapter also touches on the development of new technologies, such as the synchronizer gear, which allowed machine guns to be fired through the propeller of an aeroplane. The Royal Flying Corps and Royal Naval Air Service played a crucial role in the war, with their duties increasing as the war progressed. The chapter concludes by mentioning the heroism and skill of airmen, such as Captain Ball, who destroyed 41 enemy machines and was awarded the Victoria Cross.
The chapter discusses the discovery of atmospheric pressure and the invention of the barometer by Torricelli. It explains how the barometer works and its use in measuring atmospheric pressure. The chapter also mentions the development of the aneroid barometer, which is used to measure altitude, and the barograph, a self-registering instrument used by airmen to record their altitude. Additionally, it touches on the importance of understanding atmospheric pressure in aviation and the role of instruments like the barometer and barograph in helping airmen navigate and determine their height.
The chapter discusses how an airman knows what height they reach while flying. The airman uses a height-recording instrument called a barograph, which is a development of the aneroid barometer. The barograph is self-registering and records the height of the airman's flight. The airman does not guess at their flying height, but instead relies on the barograph to provide an accurate measurement. The barograph is a crucial tool for airmen, especially during competitions where the goal is to reach the highest altitude.
The chapter discusses how an airman finds their way while flying, particularly during cross-country flights over unfamiliar land. The airman uses a specially prepared map, which is spread out before them in an aluminum map case, to navigate. The map is different from an ordinary map and is made by Mr. Alexander Gross. The airman also uses landmarks such as large sheets of water, railway lines, forests, rivers, and canals to guide them. Additionally, the airman relies on their instincts and ability to recognize prominent features on the route. The chapter also mentions the use of an anti-drift aero-compass, which has been designed to prevent the airman from going off course due to strong side winds.
The chapter discusses the life and achievements of Adolphe Pégoud, a French aviator who is credited with being the first person to fly upside down in an airplane. Pégoud's achievement was a significant milestone in the history of aviation, and his experiments with flying upside down helped to advance the understanding of aerodynamics and the capabilities of airplanes. The chapter also touches on the importance of Pégoud's discovery, which has been hailed as a major breakthrough in the field of aviation.
The chapter discusses the achievements of British aviators, including the first Englishman to fly upside down, Mr. Hucks, who was inspired by M. Pegoud's exhibition of upside-down flying. Mr. Hucks practiced for his feat by hanging upside down in a chair and eventually successfully looped the loop at a height of 1500 feet. Another British aviator, Mr. George Lee Temple, also known as the "baby airman", attempted to fly upside down despite the lack of encouragement from experienced aviators and the manufacturer's warning that his machine was unsuitable for the performance. Temple's mechanics strengthened the wings of his monoplane, and he fitted it with a slightly larger elevator, and on November 24, 1913, he successfully flew upside down at the London aerodrome.
The chapter discusses the risks and accidents associated with flying, highlighting the statistics of fatal accidents in aeroplanes. Despite the perceived dangers, the author argues that flying is relatively safe, citing the example of the French Aero Club's findings that only one fatal accident occurred for every 92,000 miles flown in 1912. The chapter also explores the causes of accidents, including defective machinery, lack of caution, and unnecessary risks taken by pilots. The author emphasizes the importance of regular inspection and maintenance of aircraft, as well as the need for pilots to exercise caution and follow safety protocols. Additionally, the chapter touches on the development of new technologies, such as dual-engine planes, and the potential for air travel to become a safe and efficient mode of transportation.
The chapter continues the discussion on accidents and their causes in aviation, highlighting the importance of regular inspection and maintenance of aircraft, as well as the need for pilots to exercise caution and follow safety protocols. It also touches on the development of new technologies, such as dual-engine planes, and the potential for air travel to become a safe and efficient mode of transportation. The chapter also explains various technical terms used by aviators, including gliding angle, vol plane, and air pocket. Finally, it looks to the future of aviation, noting the rapid progress made in the field and the potential for air travel to become a major mode of transportation, with the possibility of aerial passenger services to the United States and other destinations.
The chapter discusses the risks and accidents associated with flying, highlighting the statistics of fatal accidents in aeroplanes. Despite the perceived dangers, the author argues that flying is relatively safe, citing the example of the French Aero Club's findings that only one fatal accident occurred for every 92,000 miles flown in 1912. The chapter also explores the causes of accidents, including defective machinery, lack of caution, and unnecessary risks taken by pilots. The author emphasizes the importance of regular inspection and maintenance of aircraft, as well as the need for pilots to exercise caution and follow safety protocols. Additionally, the chapter touches on the development of new technologies, such as dual-engine planes, and the potential for air travel to become a safe and efficient mode of transportation. The chapter also explains various technical terms used by aviators, including gliding angle, vol plane, and air pocket, and looks to the future of aviation, noting the rapid progress made in the field and the potential for air travel to become a major mode of transportation.
The chapter discusses various technical terms used by aviators, including gliding angle, vol plane, and air pocket. It explains how these terms are used to describe the behavior of an aeroplane in flight, and how pilots use them to navigate and control their machines. The chapter also touches on the concept of banking, where a pilot tilts the machine to one side to fly around a corner, and nose diving, where the pilot makes a headlong dive towards the earth with the nose of the machine pointing vertically downwards. Additionally, the chapter mentions the phenomenon of air pockets, where an aeroplane enters a tract of air with no supporting power for the planes, and remous, a violent disturbance in the air that can make the machine fly unsteadily.
The chapter discusses the future of aviation, highlighting the rapid progress made in the field and the potential for air travel to become a major mode of transportation. The author notes that the war has driven the development of aviation, and the British Government has fostered the growth of the new arm by all means in their power. The chapter also touches on the development of new technologies, such as dual-engine planes, and the potential for air travel to become a safe and efficient mode of transportation. The author concludes by stating that the future of aviation is uncertain, but it is likely to bring about significant changes and advancements in the field.