Flight: 100 Years of Aviation - Hardcover

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0789489104 ISBN 13: 9780789489104

Publisher: Dk Pub, 2002

Synopsis

From the early pioneers to the latest spaceflight technology, this groundbreaking book charts the inspirational story behind humankind's conquest of the skies. In the 100 years since the Wright brothers' first powered flight, aviation has witnessed many memorable events. From record-breaking flights and aerial warfare, to advances in aircraft design and the race for space, Flight covers the most memorable moments in the history of aviation. Describing the feats of the brave men and women who piloted the early flying machines, to the pioneers of long-distance flight and the test pilots who ushered in the jet age, Flight is a gripping narrative of humankind's quest to conquer the skies and explore space. Loaded with spectacular full-color photographs, dramatic first-hand accounts, and fact-filled profiles on a huge range of aircraft, this is an enthralling account of a century of innovation and adventure.

About this title

About the Author:

The Smithsonian Institution's National Air & Space Museum maintains the largest collection of air and spacecraft in the world. It is also a vital center for research into the history, science, and technology of aviation and space flight. R.G. Grant has published more than 20 books on social life and military conflict in the 20th century. His works include a biography of Winston Churchill, a history of the Berlin Wall, and a study of the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki

From Library Journal:

This sweeping compendium of milestones in 20th-century aviation history is published in association with the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum, which may account for its rigorous attention to detail. Grant (The Berlin Wall) offers a wealth of supportive information to complement his engagingly written text. Succinct offset biographies sketch the lives and contributions of aviation's pioneers (both men and women), scientists, promoters, businessmen, barnstormers, racers, designers and manufacturers, aces (from World War I to Vietnam), and astronauts and cosmonauts. Fascinating sidebars also treat early flight, assorted inventions, famous air races (1910-39), the gradual transformation of the role of the fighter pilot, the evolution of aerial weaponry, training programs, navigational technology, aerial exploration, landmark altitude and long-distance flights, Zeppelin travel, power plants, Hitler's jet and rocket programs, the breaking of the sound barrier, the Cold War space race, and America's current shuttle program. The impressive illustrations include over 300 gorgeous, full-color profiles of the world's major military and civilian aircraft and space vehicles. The result is a work of greater overall scope and depth than Bill Gunston's Aviation: The First 100 Years. Highly recommended for all military, aviation, and transportation collections and public libraries.
John Carver Edwards, Univ. of Georgia Libs., Cleveland
Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About this edition

• Publisher: Dk Pub
• Publication date: 2002
• ISBN 10: 0789489104
• ISBN 13: 9780789489104
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 440
• Editor: R. G. Grant