At the after part of the keel were fitted a rudder and
small elevators, and two pairs of movable horizontal planes were
also fitted forward. It is remarkable that no stabilizing
surfaces whatsoever were mounted. The envelope was so
exceedingly strong that a high pressure of gas could be
sustained, and ballonets were considered unnecessary, but relief
valves were employed. The first flight took place in September
and was fairly successful. Several were made afterwards, and in
October she was flown over London and landed at the Crystal
Palace. The flight lasted 3 hours and 25 minutes, which
constituted at the time a world's record. Three days later,
owing to heavy winds, the ship had to be deflated and was taken
back to Farnborough.
NULLI SECUNDUS II
In 1908 the old ship was rebuilt with several modifications. The
envelope was increased in length and was united to the keel by
means of a covering of silk fabric in place of the net, four
suspension bands being again used. A large bow elevator was
mounted which made the ship rather unstable. A few flights were
accomplished, but the ship proved of little value and was broken
up.
BABY
This little airship made its first appearance in the spring of
1909. The envelope was fish-shaped and composed of gold-beater's
skin, with a volume of 21,000 cubic feet.
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