Rachael Kneice - Wings #1

3. When did the era of modern aviation begin and why?

                Modern aviation began with Sir George Cayley, in the early-to-mid-1800s. He determined that heavier-than-air flight was something that could be achieved once enough scientific research was completed. He worked on learning basic principles of aerodynamics and was essentially the first aeronautical engineer. The flyers that he built were the first fixed-wing gliders, giving humans a taste of flight (Crouch, 35). He had been fascinated with balloons and flying toys as a child, which is what sparked his inspiration. In turn, his efforts sparked both European and Americans to continue what he had started. The Wright brothers were well familiar with his work and greatly praised his academic publishings on the principles of aeronautics. His research helped others to take what he had learned and apply new concepts to the matter of flight.

4. What three methods of solving the challenge of flight emerged by the late nineteenth century and how effective were they?

                The first approach was when experimenters went straight from research to the construction of a fully-function aircraft. One example of this is Clément Ader from France, who designed a steam-powered tailless monoplane. His creation basically rose in the air for 160 feet, but did not have a sustained or a controlled flight (Crouch, 41-42). Another approach was focused on designing and testing model aircraft. Alphonse Pénaud invented a “planophore” which was powered by twisted rubber bands. The research from some of his designs inspired Wilbur and Orville Wright. The third approach was to design and test specifically piloted gliders. Between the years 1849-1890, at least five people glided for short distances (Crouch, 44). Soon after their flights, however, they all went back to their research and did not attempt the dangers of flying.

7. When and what was La Grande Semaine d’Aviation de Champagne and what significance does it have in aviation history?

                This was a week of flying activity, just north of the city of Reims, France. It was held in August of 1909. There were competitions to be held and passenger rides to be given. Many different airplanes made their appearance, and the pros and cons of each were examined. This event was a demonstration of the technology that had developed. One big significance that is has in aviation history is that it was the first international public flying event. The book states that this event was the transition between inventing the airplane and the birth of the aviation industry (Crouch, 118).