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Exploring Special Collections Instruction Sessions: A Guide for Faculty

This research guide provides information regarding collaborations between Special Collections and faculty across campus.

History of Aviation Archive Overview and Significance

The History of Aviation Archive represents a world-class aeronautical collection documenting the evolution of flight and aerospace development. As the largest section of Special Collections, it serves as the official repository for significant aviation history, including Civil Air Transport (CAT) and Air America operations. The collection spans from early aviation pioneers to modern aerospace development, featuring unique materials on lighter-than-air craft, military aviation, commercial airlines, and Texas aerospace industry through LTV/Chance Vought records.

The archive's significance extends beyond mere historical documentation, offering unique insights into technological innovation, military operations, commercial aviation development, and aerospace industry evolution. Through the Jalonick Memorial Distinguished Lecture Series and various outreach programs, the collection actively contributes to aviation education and research.

Academic Applications by Discipline: Arts, Humanities, and Technology

 This is a black and white picture of three men working on a LZ 130 Graf Zeppelin. 

LZ 130 Graf Zeppelin

RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES

  • Research aircraft design aesthetics
  • Document cockpit design evolution
  • Study aviation propaganda materials
  • Research aircraft art and nose art
  • Research lighter-than-air craft design 
  • Create digital aviation photography exhibits
  • Create documentary film projects

Academic Applications by Discipline: Biology and Environmental Science

RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIESThis is a black and white image of a bi-wing airplane mid-flight with someone sitting on the wing of the airplane.

  • Research aerial photography for environmental monitoring
  • Map historical flight patterns
  • Create an exhibit on aviation and the environment
  • Investigate the use of aviation in disaster response

 

Ormer Locklear lying on a wing

Academic Applications by Discipline: Science, Engineering, and Economics

RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIESThis is a picture of the title page of Mr. Lunardi's Account of his Ascension and Aerial Voyage, from the New Fort, Liverpool, on Wednesday the 20th of July, 1785. The page is yellowed and has black type.

  • Aerodynamics and material science of early aircraft
  • Evolution of aviation safety protocols
  • Aircraft Noise Reduction Technologies
  • Structural analysis of historical aircraft
  • Design and Build a Model Wind Tunnel
  • Analyze the Role of Aviation in World War I

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mr. Lunardi's account of his ascension and aerial voyage : from the New Fort, Liverpool, on Wednesday the 20th of July, 1785