Flights of Imagination. An Introduction to Aerodynamics.

The study and use of kites have contributed to science through the development of aeronautics. This document traces some of the history of kites and provides teachers and students with basic information about kite components and flight dynamics. The major portion of the book provides students with 18 projects which deal with: (1) shapes that will fly; (2) kites compared with gliders; (3) lift; (4) air flow; (5) the angle of attack in flying kites; (6) measurements; (7) the use of dihedral angles for stability; (8) positioning kites using a tail; (9) materials; (10) box kites; (11) making height readings; (12) making wind gauges; (13) constructing a wind vane; (14) the study of wind; (15) the aspect ratio of a kite; (16) the weight to area factor; (17) wind speed and lift; and (18) force. The appendices contain information on materials for kites, when to fly a kite, where to fly a kite, how to fly a kite, and kite safety, along with a glossary, resource list, and a bibliography. Also included are a metric conversion chart and a reproducible template for making a wind gauge and a wind vane. Illustrations are included. (TW)