Four things in earth are among the smallest, but they are instinctively wise. (Proverbs 20:24)
Humans have a fascination with flying but for many who fly small aircraft, the smaller the plane, the greater instability. Yet, the tiny bumblebee is capable of flying with unmatched stability in strong winds.
How does a small creature outfly even the most experienced pilots? The bee will reduce speed when it encounters wind turbulence, allowing it to focus its energy on correcting its flight path. Additionally the bee is more susceptible to flight disruption when the wind blows against it horizontally. So, another key to stability is that it will roll midair into the force of the wind. This repositioning allows for better control as the bee can easily adjust to oncoming vertical turbulence. Understanding the bumblebee’s innate control system could someday helpful aeronautical engineers design small aircraft better suited for stable flight in adverse weather. In the meantime, scientists still have much to learn before practical application is possible.
What do you think?
Is the bumblebee’s impressive ability to fly in turbulent weather a product of evolution ? Or was it designed?
Bumblebee
Gallery-wrapped canvas prints featuring high-density pigment inks on acid free archival quality canvas. Sawtooth hanger included for easy installation.
Acid-free Archival Quality Canvas