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Richard Whitcomb examines model

Description:In the 8 foot High-Speed Tunnel in April 1955, Richard Whitcomb examines a model designed in accordance with his transonic area rule.

 

Richard T Whitcomb, a young aerodynamicist at the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, is most famous for his development of the "area rule." He revolutionized how engineers looked at high-speed drag and impacted the design of virtually every transonic and supersonic aircraft ever built. In recognition of its far-reaching impact, Whitcomb's area rule was awarded the 1954 Collier Trophy.

 

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Credit: NASA

Image Number: L-89119

Date: April 20, 1955

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Uploaded on April 20, 2020
Taken on April 20, 1955