NASA Meatball The First Century of Flight: NACA/NASA Contribution to Aeronautics blank graphic 2000–03 space shuttles image
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Wind Tunnel Picture

June 11, 1920—Wind Tunnel 1 at NACA Langley was formally dedicated. It was the first of many now-famous NACA and NASA wind tunnels. Although this specific wind tunnel was not unique or advanced, it led NACA engineers and scientists to advanced wind tunnel concepts.

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Variable Density Wind Tunnel Picture

1922—Variable Density Wind Tunnel (VDT) was constructed. The VDT brought a new concept to wind tunnel design by employing high-pressure air, compressed to a higher density in an airtight chamber, to better simulate flight conditions with scale models.

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Compressibility Research Picture

1924–1960s—Compressibility research, the study of air’s behavior as a high-speed compressible fluid began in the 1920s and enabled researchers to solve control problems later experienced by WWII airplanes.

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First NACA Aircraft Picture

May 23, 1925—First NACA Aircraft Engineering Research Conference was held. Government promoted the transfer of technology and expertise to industry.

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Updated October 28, 2002
Steve Garber, NASA History Web Curator
For further information, e-mail histinfo@hq.nasa.gov

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edited by Lisa Jirousek
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