Quarter(s): 3,4

Day(s): Tue

Open Spots: 5

In this semester-long course, students will delve into the fascinating technology of advanced aircraft. The class will look at the aerodynamic concepts related to drones, how drones are being used today, and applications for drones in the future. They will look at FAA rules governing drones- even amateur, hobby drones- in our airspace today. The group will also look at gliders and sailplanes- unique, fixed wing aircraft with no engines. They will design and model gliders and consider their uses in aviation. Next, the students will learn about the forces, physics, and flight of rotorcraft, such as helicopters, autogyros, and gyrodynes and hybrid tiltrotors such as the V-22 Osprey. Students will weigh advantages, disadvantages, and applications of these blade and rotor- driven aircraft, including their unique ability to take of and land vertically. For these advanced type of aircraft, students will take the controls of RC (radio controlled) models. Finally, in order to plan and design for all types of aircraft, the class will learn about advanced meteorological concepts affecting aviation. This is a 16-week, semester-long class led by a professional in aviation.