Aerofoil Collection

Formula One World Championship
An experimental rear wing on the Brabham BT26 of Jochen Rindt (AUT) causes the marshals in the pitlane to give it a double take during practice. United States Grand Prix, Watkins Glen, 6 October 1968

Formula One Launch
The rear wing of the Jordan Honda EJ12. DHL Jordan Honda EJ12 Launch, Brussels Airport, Belgium. 22 February 2002. BEST IMAGE

Formula One World Championship
Rear end detail of the new 2002 Jaguar Racing R3. Jaguar R3 Launch, Milton Keynes 4 January 2002 BEST IMAGE

Formula One World Championship
Sixth placed James Hunt (GBR) McLaren M26 experiments with an unusual front wing configuration during practice. Spanish Grand Prix, Rd 7, Jarama, Spain, 4 June 1978. BEST IMAGE

Formula One World Championship
The Cooper T86B of Vic Elford (GBR) was powered by a V12 BRM engine and finished eighth in the race. Mexican Grand Prix, Mexico City, 3 November 1968

1969 McLaren 10A prototype, Bruce McLaren. Creator: Unknown
1969 McLaren 10A prototype, Bruce McLaren

Saunders-Roe A19 Cloud, G-ABHG, in revised form with two 425hp Pratt & Whitney Wasp radials, an auxiliary aerofoil and three rudders

Evolution of the airfoil, 1908-1944. Creator: Unknown
Evolution of the airfoil, 1908-1944. Diagrams showing the historical evolution of airfoil sections. The last two shapes are low-drag sections designed to have laminar flow over 60 to 70 percent of

The worlds largest wind tunnel, Ames Aeronautical Laboratory, Moffett Field, California, USA, 1947. 40 x 80 foot wind tunnel which, when built, was the worlds largest

Digital illustration representing aerodynamics of birds wing, forming curved shape along upper surface known as aerofoil

Flying by Mechanical Means
Designs for man-powered flight, modelled on birds. 1810

Robotic bee

Futuristic airbus in Paris
A futuristic airbus in Paris, with aerofoils and bat-like wings. Pilot, drop me off at the Louvre !

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The concept of the aerofoil has revolutionized the world of aviation and continues to shape our skies today. Dating back to 1969, the McLaren 10A prototype showcased its prowess on the racetrack, thanks to Bruce McLaren's innovative vision. The creator behind this masterpiece remains unknown but their contribution is undeniable. Another notable mention in aeronautical history is the Saunders-Roe A19 Cloud, G-ABHG, which underwent significant revisions. This aircraft played a pivotal role in Formula One World Championships, pushing boundaries and setting new records. Delving deeper into its evolution, we find an intriguing timeline from 1908 to 1944 showcasing various airfoils developed by anonymous creators. These designs paved the way for future advancements in aerodynamics. In pursuit of perfection, scientists at Ames Aeronautical Laboratory constructed the world's largest wind tunnel at Moffett Field, California. This colossal structure became instrumental in testing and refining aircraft performance. Nature itself provided inspiration for aerofoil design as illustrated by digital representations of bird wings' curved upper surfaces that optimize flight efficiency. Mimicking these natural wonders led to groundbreaking discoveries within aviation engineering. Advancements aren't limited to manned flight alone; even robotic bees have embraced aerodynamic principles for efficient movement through airspaces previously inaccessible. Looking towards tomorrow's skies brings us face-to-face with futuristic concepts like an Airbus envisioned for Paris - an embodiment of cutting-edge technology merging seamlessly with sleek aerodynamics. From race cars to airplanes and beyond, the impact of aerofoils cannot be overstated. They have propelled humanity forward in our quest for faster speeds, greater efficiencies, and boundless possibilities in flying by mechanical means.