num_pages: 0
description: The science of flight has a reputation for being notoriously difficult. After all rocket science is often used as a benchmark for difficulty or complexity. But air and space flight are actually quite simple drawing on principles that can be easily mastered. Learning these concepts gives a deeper appreciation for flying machines from every era from the Wright Flyer of 1903 to the Space Shuttle to the flight you may be on right now as you are reading this sentence. No place is better equipped to explore this subject than the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum the worlds premier collection of artifacts from the air and space ages. The Great Courses joins with the Smithsonian to present The Science of Flight covering the workings of flying machines of every description in 24 lavishly illustrated half-hour lectures given by Professor James Gregory of Ohio State University. An award-winning teacher and noted aeronautical researcher Professor Gregory is also an instrument-rated private pilot. Dr. Gregory brings ideas such as lift propulsion and three-axis control to life illustrated by iconic examples from the Air and Space Museum including the original Wright Flyer P-51 Mustang SR-71 Blackbird and Space Shuttle Discovery among other historic vehicles. Smithsonian curators add incisive commentary; and extensive graphics and demonstrations make the concepts clear and understandableas do field trips to the Aviation Institute of Maintenance and an exciting excursion aloft with Professor Gregory at the controls.
language: English
title: The Great Courses - The Science of Flight
publisher: The Great Courses