The radio-controlled (r/c) flying research model “Prandtl-D Ship 1” returned the first scientific data proving it is possible to design a wing with a bell-shape lift distribution that can generate favorable yaw. The NASA aerodynamicist responsible for designing, building, and testing the Prandtl-D Ship 1 flying research model is Albion H. Bowers (Chief Scientist, Armstrong Flight Research Center, ret.). Favorable yaw is the opposite of adverse yaw, the tendency of most fixed-wing aircraft to roll and yaw in the direction opposite to that which the pilot wishes to turn. Most conventional aircraft use the rudder mounted on a long moment arm, the fuselage, to allow the pilot to counteract adverse yaw. All-wing aircraft are particularly vulnerable to adverse yaw because they have no fuselage or rudder.

Wing Span 12 ft 4 in.

Length 4 ft 4 in.

Height 18 in.

Gross Weight 10 lb

Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.

Object Details

Type

MODELS-Aircraft

Physical Description

One Prandtl-D Ship 1 model; white carbon fiber skin; foam core; drawings, signatures, and stickers covering skin;

Dimensions

Wing Span (12 ft 4 in.)
Length (4 ft 4 in.)
Height (18 in.)
Gross Weight (10 lb)

Materials

Foam Core
Carbon Fiber
Aluminum Tape
Metal

Inventory Number

A20200373000

Credit Line

Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Neil A. Armstrong Flight Research Center

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
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