150 years of inspiration

摘要

To have anticipated powered flight by 37 years and spaceflight by 91 years is no mean achievement for an aeronautical learned society. As a British-based international organisation, the RAeS can rightly be associated with the development of a world-changing technology. Aeronautics and its young sibling space have, together, brought about the 'space-time shrinkage' that has revolutionised how we move round the planet; for better or worse added a third and awesome dimension to warfare; and, in the case of space, transformed the way we view our home world. Many people, brave men and women contributed to the development of modern aviation with achievements that still inspire the young to join in the continuing adventure. It is an area of activity that nations also want to join, whether in making aerospace products or creating airline and other services.