Did you ever wonder how the aerodynamic (fluid dynamic) principles were worked out in order to produce the high performance airplanes of the 50’s and 60’s were developed before the advent of computer flow models? Some of those aircraft sill hold records...
A 1957 film from the Department of Defense. I love the visual teaching method used in these early films. Lots to learn here if you wanted to understand the forces on an aircraft.
What has less drag, a smooth surface or one with imperfections such as rivit heads or seams?
Erik Dahl Christensen’s Airfoil History If like me, you love to design aircraft and want to get a better handle on airfoils, Eric Christensens’s site is an excellent study. Click his home link to find calculators and other sailplane design information....
