Sun, Feb 15, 2009
Aero-Terms!
Aero-Terms are designed to be a daily reminder of the terms,
names, acronyms and explanations of the unique language that
populates the aviation world. Aerospace, sport aviation, fixed
wing, helo, you name it... it's all fair game.
Aero-Terms should serve as a quick but intriguing reminder of
the terms you may use every day, or an introduction to an aspects
of the Aero-World you may not yet be familiar with. ANN also
encourages readers to go beyond the FMI link, and further research
any intriguing terms.
Suggestions for future Aero-Terms are ALWAYS
welcome, as are additions or discussion of the
explanations given for each Aero-Term.
Mid-Air
Retrieval
A technique used in atmospheric reentry when the reentering
vehicle is incapable of a satisfactory unassisted landing. The
vehicle is slowed by means of parachutes, and then a
specially-equipped aircraft matches the vehicle's trajectory and
catches it in mid-air. This is a risky technique, and so is only
used when other forms of landing are infeasible. Successful mid-air
retrieval requires correct operation of the retrieving aircraft,
favorable atmospheric conditions, and successful execution of a
tricky maneuver, in addition to correct operation of the vehicle
itself. Complicating matters, helicopters, which are the optimal
aircraft for these operations due to their maneuverability, are
particularly prone to mechanical breakdown. These risks can be
mitigated somewhat: for example, multiple recovery aircraft can be
used. The need for human aviators to perform a maneuver which would
normally be classed as a stunt may in the future be avoided by
advances in unmanned aerial vehicles.
More News
From 2023 (YouTube Version): Legacy of a Titan Robert (Bob) Anderson Hoover was a fighter pilot, test pilot, flight instructor, and air show superstar. More so, Bob Hoover was an i>[...]
Get The Latest in Aviation News NOW on Instagram Are you on Instagram yet? It's been around for a few years, quietly picking up traction mostly thanks to everybody's new obsession >[...]
Aero Linx: B-52H Stratofortress The B-52H Stratofortress is a long-range, heavy bomber that can perform a variety of missions. The bomber is capable of flying at high subsonic spee>[...]
Altimeter Setting The barometric pressure reading used to adjust a pressure altimeter for variations in existing atmospheric pressure or to the standard altimeter setting (29.92).>[...]
"Knowing that we play an active part in bettering people's lives is extremely rewarding. My team and I are very thankful for the opportunity to be here and to help in any way we ca>[...]