Flying boats are seaplanes that use their hulls for buoyancy, rather than pontoons. They were popular for long-distance voyages in the 1920s and 1930s, but interest waned after World War II. Some manufacturers still make them for remote locations, and some designs can be used on land or at sea. A flying boat is an […]
The B-17 Flying Fortress was a durable and iconic aircraft used in World War II, with a distinctive four-engine design and strong turret guns. It was capable of accurate bombing and often flew in fighter formations to protect itself. Many are now on display in aviation museums or used for transportation. The B-17 Flying Fortress […]
Flying with an ear infection can cause pain due to changes in cabin pressure, but for those who must fly, using a decongestant and swallowing frequently can help manage discomfort. Chewing gum or sucking on candy can also relieve pressure. See a doctor for serious infections. If possible, it’s best to avoid flying with an […]
Flying probe testing is a PCB and PCA test that uses a probe on a mechanical arm to test all parts and ensure they are present and functional. It is more versatile than the bed of nails test and can be programmed easily. It is used primarily in manufacturing plants and can verify correct production […]
Flying with a baby can be made easier by packing only the essentials, planning for delays, and checking airline policies. Essential carry-on items include extra clothes, diapers, and baby food, as well as toys and comfort items. It’s important to check airline regulations regarding seating and to be prepared for various scenarios, such as earaches. […]
Many people are afraid of flying but are ashamed to talk about it. Information about flight safety and physics can help, as can hypnotherapy or talking to a pilot. Online resources and books are also available. Overcoming the fear of flying requires a desire to change. People fear many things: snakes, spiders, closed places. However, […]
Moller International has invested $200 million over 40 years to develop flying cars, but only prototypes have been made. The M400X skycar is expected to go into production in 2009, but previous promises were not kept. The M200G “flying saucer” is in production and could cost less than $100,000, but only hovers about ten feet […]
Flying animals evolved independently four times in the history of life on Earth: in insects, pterosaurs, birds, and bats. Insect flight may have evolved much earlier, in the Devonian period. Flying animals vary widely in size, from the tiny fairy wasp to the massive extinct pterosaur, Quetzalcoatlus. There are a variety of types of aerial […]
The Azhadrichidae family of pterosaurs, including Quetzalcoatlus and Hatzegopteryx, were the largest flying animals ever, with wingspans of over 12m. They lived during the Late Cretaceous and were adept walkers. Scientists previously believed each new large pterosaur discovered represented the largest possible flying animal, but this idea has been debunked. The largest flying animal ever […]
In 2005, the Kansas State Board of Education voted to require public schools to include the “intelligent design” theory as a viable alternative to the Darwinian theory of evolution. This decision prompted a physics graduate student named Bob Henderson to draft a somewhat satirical protest letter. Henderson argued that any legitimate “intelligent design” theory could […]
The Flying Dutchman is a ghost ship that sails the seas forever, often appearing as a warning of danger. Its origins are uncertain, but many stories place it at the Cape of Good Hope. The captain is said to be responsible for the ship’s fate and has different names in various versions of the tale. […]