SpaceX’s Successfully Tests Hexagonal Heat Shield

SpaceX has successfully tested a hexagonal heat shield intended for its Starship passenger spacecraft. Over the weekend, CEO Elon Musk announced on Twitter that his company had exposed the Starship the new heat shield to heat similar to that of … Read More

The Science Behind Recycling Airplanes

No airplane lasts forever. Even when properly maintained, most airplanes last for an average of 20 to 40 years. Technically, the lifespan of airplanes is measured in the number of pressurization cycles in undergoes. For a typical commercial airplane, however, … Read More

Airbus Now Using Drones to Deliver Packages to Ships

While most known for its jets, some of which include the A220, A300, A310, A318, A319 and A350, Airbus produces a variety of aerospace products, including drones. The Netherlands-based company has been investing heavily in drone technology in recent years. … Read More

Why Do Airplanes Have Swept Wings?

If you look at commercial airplanes — as well as many privately owned airplanes — you’ll probably notice that most have swept wings. In other words, their wings don’t extend straight out from the sides. Instead, they angle backwards to … Read More

Boeing Reveals 777x Launch Date

It’s been a long time in the making, but Boeing is preparing to officially launch its new 777X jet. Powered by brand-new GE9X engines and featuring composite wings, the 777X has received a lot of attention in recent years. The … Read More

What Are Trim Tabs on Airplanes?

Trim tabs have been used in airplanes for decades. Typically found on the outer edges of the ailerons, rudders and elevator, they live up to their namesake by allowing the pilot or pilots to control the airplane’s trim during the … Read More

SpaceX and Boeing to Send Astronauts to ISS

Both SpaceX and Boeing are planning to send astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) within the next few months. Last weekend, SpaceX launched its Dragon capsule to the ISS in preparation of the upcoming manned mission. First taking off … Read More

Airbus Projects 90 More Unit Sales in 2019 Compared to Last Year

Amidst recent news of the A30’s cancellation, Airbus still going strong in the commercial aerospace industry. When speaking to the press during the company’s annual news conference, Airbus said that it plans to sell 90 additional aircraft units in 2019 … Read More

6 Fun Facts About the Boeing 787 Dreamliner

Originally introduced 2011 with All Nippon Airways, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner has become one of the most popular mid-size jets used by commercial airlines. Even if you’ve seen this jet — or even flown in one — though, there are … Read More