Boeing Lands Contract to Build Four Satellites

Boeing has just landed a contract to build four communications satellites for the European telecommunications company SES. The deal was announced on Aug. 7, 2020. According to SES, it will pay Boeing an estimated $566 million for the additional satellites. … Read More

Why Airlines Require Passengers to Open Window Shades During Takeoffs and Landings

Airlines typically require passengers to open their window shades during takeoffs and landings. Once an airplane has reached cruising altitude — 31,000 to 38,000 feet — passengers can close them. At lower altitudes, though, passengers must keep their window shades … Read More

Airbus to Build Interplanetary Rock-Transporting Spaceship

While most known for building commercial jets — including the world’s largest passenger airliner, the A380, — Airbus has its eyes set on space. In July, Airbus revealed that it had partnered with the European Space Agency (ESA) to build … Read More

What Is a Stall Speed and How Does It Affect Airplanes?

Regardless of their respective size, airplanes must stay within a certain angle to maintain lift. If they exceed this limit, their lift will decrease. This can lead to a phenomenon known as a stall. When an airplane stalls, it will … Read More

NASA to Launch Star-Studying Balloon Into the Stratosphere.

In an effort to learn more about stars, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is planning to launch a massive balloon into the stratosphere. Known as ASTHROS, it will carry a high-tech telescope that’s capable of peering into the … Read More

A Breakdown of 4 Main Types of Jet Engines

Jet engines are used to power airplanes of all shapes and sizes. When compared to propeller engines, they have a greater power output, thereby allowing for faster flight speeds. Not all jet engines are the same, however. While all jet … Read More

NASA Renews Partnership With Boeing for ISS Support

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has renewed its partnership with Boeing to provide services involving International Space Station (ISS) missions. In July 2020, the U.S.-based aerospace manufacturing company announced plans to support NASA’s ISS missions through 2024. With … Read More

How Airplanes Are Deiced During the Winter

It’s not uncommon for ice to form on airplanes during the winter. It can occur when an airplane is on the runway or in the air. As moisture droplets accumulate on an airplane, they may freeze if the temperature drops … Read More

6 Facts About the Boeing 747

The Boeing 747 is one of the most iconic jets in the history of commercial aviation. Introduced in 1970 with Pan American World Airways, it’s a large wide-body jet developed by Boeing Commercial Airplanes. Since then, Boeing has built over … Read More