Wind tunnel tests reveal aerodynamics of dinosaurs
Wind tunnel tests reveal aerodynamics of dinosaurs
18 September 2013
By Tereza Pultarova
British researchers have studied aerodynamic performance of feathered dinosaurs using equipment designed to tune aircraft.
Using a full-scale, anatomically correct model of a microraptor – the first theropod known to have feathers on its arms, legs and tail – scientists from the University of Southampton have tried to gain more insight into the evolution of bird flight.
They discovered that the four-wing configuration of microraptors allowed the animals to glide, generating a lot of lift with their four feathered limbs and a tail, representing the first stage in the evolution of two-winged flying creatures.
Flight simulations revealed the microraptors were able to glide slowly from trees and other low-elevation points, crossing considerably long distances with minimal height loss.
More:
http://eandt.theiet.org/news/2013/sep/wind-tunnel-dinosaur.cfm
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