Animals' flight often amazes me. I remember reading that a dragonfly can fly in any direction (backwards, diagonally, etc.), can come to an instant stop, and can carry loads up to 40 times their own bodyweight. Helicopters look laughably primitive in comparison (actually, dragonflies can hover in one position, too - something very difficult to do with a helicopter). And, of course, they're very fast.
What I want to know is how their wings fold and unfold. I wonder if there is some sort of hydraulic system that creates rigidity?
It's amazing how it times up perfectly with this. Just start both videos and enjoy.
- Mother nature still puts our technology to shame.
If you can't beat 'em, -join 'em! DARPA's cheeta: http://www.theatlantic.com/video/archive/2012/03/darpas-chee... Though 18 mph compared to 70 mph isn't quite so mind-blowing... :P
Hmm. Sound like a good plot for a sci-fi novel that could come true one day :)