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Wright Whirlwind R-790-A (J-5) Radial 9 Engine, 1920s. Creator: Wright Aeronautical
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Wright Whirlwind R-790-A (J-5) Radial 9 Engine, 1920s. Creator: Wright Aeronautical
The J-5 Whirlwind was a cornerstone aviation technology of the 1920s and 1930s. Charles L. Lawrance began work on the J-series of compact, lightweight, air-cooled radials for the U.S. Navy in 1921. The Navy merged Lawrances firm with Wright Aeronautical in 1923 to further develop and manufacture the new engines. The J-5 had such advanced features as sodium-cooled exhaust valves and aluminum cylinder heads designed by engine pioneer Sam D. Heron. The Whirlwind became the engine of choice for Americas long-distance and exploratory fliers, including Charles Lindbergh, who chose a J-5 for the Spirit of St. Louis. This artifact, a military R-790-A, was the center engine on the Army Air Corps Fokker C-2 tri-motor " Question Mark, " which pioneered aerial refueling by setting an endurance record of 150 hours and 40 minutes over Los Angeles in 1929
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Media ID 23877465
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This print showcases the remarkable Wright Whirlwind R-790-A (J-5) Radial 9 Engine, a true icon of aviation technology in the 1920s and 1930s. Developed by Charles L. Lawrance for the U. S. Navy, this compact and lightweight air-cooled radial engine revolutionized aircraft propulsion during its time. With cutting-edge features like sodium-cooled exhaust valves and aluminum cylinder heads designed by Sam D. Heron, the J-5 Whirlwind quickly became the preferred choice for America's long-distance and exploratory fliers. Notably, it was handpicked by legendary aviator Charles Lindbergh himself to power his historic Spirit of St. Louis aircraft. The significance of this artifact is further highlighted by its role as the center engine on the Army Air Corps Fokker C-2 tri-motor "Question Mark". In 1929, this pioneering aircraft set an endurance record of an astounding 150 hours and 40 minutes over Los Angeles, showcasing not only the capabilities of aerial refueling but also pushing boundaries in aviation technology. Preserved within the National Air and Space Museum at Smithsonian Institution, this photograph captures both a piece of American history and technological innovation that propelled humanity into new frontiers of flight. Its presence serves as a testament to our nation's commitment to progress in transportation and exploration throughout the twentieth century. As we gaze upon this image, we are reminded not only of how far we have come but also inspired to continue pushing boundaries in scientific discovery for generations to come.
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