Traces the history of rocket development from early Chinese fire arrows to modern-day space shuttles, discussing the science behind rocket flight while outlining projects that use the forces of thrust, gravity, lift, and drag.

All of aviation's dangerous, exciting, and most courageous moments are featured within this stunning compendium on flight. Packed with stories of heroic and innovative pioneers, fascinating profiles of remarkable planes from Spitfires to space shuttles, and how-to instructions for making everything from origami helicopters to bottle rockets-all accompanied by sensational photographs, illustrations, and diagrams-Cleared for Takeoff promises to astonish,...

Presents an introductory look at the world of flying, from the first manned flight, early gliders, monoplanes, and biplanes, to the high-powered jetliners, jet planes, and helicopters that travel the world today.

Otto the robot builds a spaceship to take him home.

"Covers a wide selection of machines that fly, from airliners to hot air balloons, outlining how they work and their uses"--Provided by publisher.

"Learn how to complete DIY projects dealing with aviation. Along the way, get a look at some of history's most incredible inventions and scientific discoveries."--

Tiny Broadwick, a teeny, uneducated mill girl, had big dreams of soaring above the earth, out of poverty, and above expectations. She became the first woman to parachute from an airplane, and her idea for the rip cord paved the way for pilots to safely escape in-flight emergencies.

A simple overview of some of the preparations leading up to the launch of a space shuttle.