NASAs Langley Research Center, Virginia, was established on July 17, 1917, and has played a key role in the development of aviation since its infancy. The center has been a leader in wind-tunnel research since its first tunnel, the Five-Foot Atmospheric Wind Tunnel, opened in 1919. Through the years, Langley has wind-tunnel tested or test flown a wide range of aircraft, from tilt-wing transports to high-lift wings for commercial aircraft, and advanced studies of airflow over wings. Results from Langleys aeronautical development have been incorporated into todays modern civil transports and military aircraft. Radical Wings and Wind Tunnels presents a behind-the-scenes look at how NACA, and todays NASA, use wind-tunnels and flight testing to advance aeronautical science.
