How can 'helicopters' fly on Mars?

[a.flynn]

This is an interesting topic!  Isn't there something in physics that says a rapidly rotating something will start moving in a straight line even in a vacuum or near-vacuum conditions?  A bit like spinning top or gyro.

[ATH019]

Yes, I think there is.  Well said!



Global Moderator

[blag-it Admin]

This is an interesting topic!  Isn't there something in physics that says a rapidly rotating something will start moving in a straight line even in a vacuum or near-vacuum conditions?  A bit like spinning top or gyro.

A very interesting topic.  Not sure as to the point though.  Very near to or within a strong gravitational body or force they might move in a straight line initially in a vacuum, but don't know about deep space conditions.  In any case, a spinning top or gyro isn't an aerofoil and visa-versa.


Admin

[LISTR-93]

This is it!  A gyroscope or spinning top might move in a straight line if spinning very fast due to gravitational attraction, but they're not aerofoils so not the same as helicopter rotors! 

[blag-it Admin]

No, not the same at all.  The former would move in a straight line initially if spinning very fast due to angular momentum, although in deep-space or zero gravity probably not, it would just stay fixed where it is.  The latter needs an atmospheric density that's great enough to pull against.



Admin