Reach for the Skies : Ballooning, Birdmen, and Blasting into Space

English

ISBN: 1617230030

EAN: 9781617230035

Category: Transportation / Aviation / History

Publisher: Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated

Release Date: 05/05/2011

Age Range: 18-null

Synopsis: One of the worlds most famous business leaders (and a well-known avian fanatic) explores the pioneers of flight. Bestselling author and billionaire entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson has always been obsessed with the skies. To promote a new Virgin Airlines route, he became the first man to water ski behind a blimp. His Virgin Galactic venture will soon offer ordinary people the opportunity to experience spaceflight aboard the first commercial spaceliner, SpaceShipTwo. In Reach for the Skies, Branson examines the history of aviation over the last two hundred years, putting the spotlight on trailblazers such as: * Tony Jannus, who made the first ever commercial flight over Tampa Bay, Florida, in 1914. * Leo Valentin, the bird man who jumped from 9,000 feet wearing a pair of wooden wings in the 1950s. * Steve Fossett, who broke 130 world records in planes, balloons, and airships. The pioneers of flight-not just the world-famous Wright Brothers, but also lesser known visionaries and dreamers-made it possible for any of us with the desire and the commitment to reach for the skies ourselves.

Excerpt: Unknown Property Excerpt

Reach for the Skies : Ballooning, Birdmen, and Blasting into Space

Illustrated: No

Format: Hardcover

Height: 1.22 inches

Width: 6.43 inches

Length: 9.3 inches

Weight: 20.04 oz

Pages: 352