Flying Humans, Hoping to Land With No Chute

NY Times ^ | December 10, 2007 | MATT HIGGINS

[ctdonath2]

Look closer. There are gas jet nozzles in the hands for stabilization.

[jetson]

this stuff is awsome.

[Sender]

Great minds think alike.

(image borrowed with source URL)

[Squeako]

A simple foil is a lifting device. More so than slats or flaps, especially slats.

I left out "high" when referring to the slats/flaps. I think if he did have any of these on his wing, he'd have a difficult time with the pitching moments and would need an even more complicated set-up to maintain control when he'd need it most.

He could have made a flight of much longer duration if he didn't have the jets, but rather a couple small piston/props. Although, I have to admit the little jets are so cool! I think a couple of miniature radials would be even cooler!

I can only imagine how terrifying that first ski landing attempt would be!

[Squeako]

Would a tail hook solve that problem?

I guess that depends what it's attached to! :)

[DB]

There are ways, for example a giant air bag on the ground. Miss the landing spot and die...

[LukeL]

I may not hold a degree in physics but I do know enough that man has tried for 100s of years to fly using only their own bodies and have failed miserably. I seem to recall some stock footage of people geting hurt very badly trying these stunts.

[Joya]

Thanks to All for the chuckles.