The Myth of Falling in the Art of Flight

The idea that flying is a process of falling towards the Earth is a common misconception that arises from confusion with non-aerodynamic objects such as satellites and spacecraft. To truly comprehend the art of flight, it is essential to distinguish between falling and actual flight.

Understanding Flight and Gliding

Flying is not about falling. Rather, it involves maintaining a net altitude greater than zero for a sustained period. This contrasts sharply with gliding, where gliding is a way of falling to Earth very slowly without generating lift or propulsion. With gliding, you start by losing altitude and can regain it, but ultimately, you return to the ground. The average height over this period remains positive.

Soaring is an interesting form of unpowered flight. In soaring, you can start at a low altitude and gain altitude later, again returning to Earth below your starting altitude. However, you still average a positive altitude. Most flight, however, involves using self-contained propulsion to generate the necessary thrust to stay aloft and gain altitude.

The Nature of Flight

True flight requires a dynamic interaction with the environment. It involves the use of aerodynamic principles to remain buoyant in the air. Gliding, when performed by highly trained individuals, can come close to this ideal, such as base jumpers who use minimal lift to prevent crashing. However, they still rely on parachutes to finish their descent.

A more precise description of flight would be the ability to remain aloft and gain elevation. The powerful thrust of an engine with propulsion to drive wind beneath the wings is technically flying by definition. However, it is essentially artificially thrusting. The same applies to helicopters and drones. In contrast, a hot-air balloon would be better described as hovering or floating, as it does not achieve the dynamic buoyancy of true flight.

Exploring the True Sensation of Flight

Seemingly, the closest sensation to true flight is achieved in water sports, such as body-surfing. Here, the rider uses the force of breaking waves to go full superman, staying above the water surface. This natural buoyancy and movement mimics the experience of flight, and it does not require any mechanical aid.

The author's personal experience with this sensation is so profound that they are working on a design for a near-silent compressed-air powered helium/hydrogen blimp. This unique flying machine, capable of limitless flight without pollution, would embody the true essence of flight. Achieved through the use of free-energy and simple hybridized devices, this design aims to bring the joy and freedom of flight to all.

In conclusion, flying is about maintaining a positive altitude, using aerodynamic principles to remain buoyant in the air. Gliding and soaring come close to this ideal but still fall short of the true dynamic buoyancy that defines true flight. The pursuit of true flight is a continuous quest for understanding and mastery of these principles.