One Tank Trips: Florida Air Museum

Continuing with our scientific theme for our field trips this year. Co-op planned to have a day to visit the Florida Air Museum where we were able to learn about the history of aviation, along with the science of lift. Four of our families met up for the day.

All of today's pictures were courtesy of the various moms on the trip.

We began with the main portion of the museum with various planes, simulators, and aviation exhibits. We had a tour guide who was very knowledgeable and shared so much information on the different types of planes. A few were scaled down models but most of them had flown and were actual working, though retired planes. There was even a large copy of the Wright Brother's plane. The kids were fascinated with trying to work controls and admire the planes.

From there we continued on into the shops, where they refurbish parts and study the way that various implements work. For instance, we learned a great deal about the shape of propeller blades which are bowed in a way to not only lessen air resistance, but to make them stronger. There were a number of motor pieces partially broken down, so that as we turned them, pumped them, or pressed a button, we could see the complex machine inside as it worked.

But according to all of my kids, the best part of the day was going to see the large fighter jets and inside the hanger to make paper airplanes. First everyone tried making one and we tested to see how far they flew. Then with some directions we made improved models. Finally we were given paperclips and told to add them to determine where weight should be on the planes to level out our flights. It was an incredible process that taught us about lift, aerodynamics, and balance.

Finally to round out the day we played on the playground a while, before having a picnic lunch on site. My bunch would love to go again sometime and do one of their aviation classes for older kids. If you'd like to make a trip the address to the Florida Air Museum is 4075 James C. Ray Dr., Lakeland, Florida, and their phone number is 863-644-2431. Field trips get a small discount, but regular ticket pricing is $15 for adults, $10 for youth tickets, and free for anyone 10 and under. We highly recommend them, and one of these days plan to visit during Sun and Fun the beginning of April.