An operating replica of the Wright Brothers’ pioneering 1901 Wind Tunnel is now on display at the Airbase Arizona Flying Museum in Mesa.
The Wright wind tunnel revolutionized the research of aerodynamic forces and resulted in wing design science that launched powered flight in the U.S. over 100 years ago, museum officials noted.
The replica was built by Gibson Gallares and his team as an Eagle Scout project with Gilbert Scout Troop 322. Gallares and Troop 322 are donating the interactive exhibit to Airbase Arizona Flying Museum for its education programs.
“We are honored to have assisted Gibson and his team, and are very pleased to be the recipient of this excellent project,” said Colonel Dave Kennerly, who advised Gibson on behalf of the Airbase.
A scout’s Eagle project is the last step toward achievement of scouting’s highest rank. Only 4% of scouts achieve this rank.
The project began in April 2021 and was supported by the troop and Gibson’s family and friends. The finishing touches were completed in late November 2021.
The Airbase Arizona Flying Museum is a unit of the Commemorative Air Force.