Atmospheric reentry of a paper plane

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the atmospheric reentry of a paper plane, particularly focusing on an experiment conducted in a hypersonic wind tunnel. Participants explore the implications of the experiment, its scientific merit, and cultural references related to the topic.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants reference an experiment where a scaled-down origami plane was subjected to Mach 7 winds in a wind tunnel, questioning the implications of such testing.
  • Others mention a perspective from Randall Munroe's book, suggesting that if an object is slow enough to avoid burning up, it could land in various locations, while aerodynamic objects without heat shields are likely to burn up.
  • A participant expresses skepticism about the scientific value of the experiment, questioning how it passed peer review and suggesting it contributes little to the field.
  • Several posts engage in a side discussion about the cultural meaning of the phrase "hold my beer," with participants seeking clarification and sharing humorous exchanges.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants exhibit a mix of curiosity about the experiment and skepticism regarding its scientific contribution. There is no consensus on the value of the research or the implications of the findings.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the experimental setup and its relevance to broader scientific questions, indicating potential limitations in the study's assumptions or scope.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in experimental physics, aerodynamics, and cultural references in scientific discussions may find this thread engaging.

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They folded a scaled-down version of the origami plane and placed it into the Kashiwa Hypersonic and High Enthalpy Wind Tunnel in Tokyo. Then they blasted it with Mach 7 winds — over 1,000 meters per second — for seven seconds straight.
Why does it feel like a "hold my beer" moment?

1lccxa.webp
 
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Randall Munroe talked about something similar in his book how to, the conclusion for a paper envelope was basically: if it's slow enough to not burn up, then there's a pretty large range of places where it could land. And then other random objects: If it's aerodynamic enough to go somewhat fast, and there's no heat shield, it's probably going to burn up.

:D

Maybe I am not cultured enough: can someone explain the hold my beer joke?
 
TensorCalculus said:
Maybe I am not cultured enough: can someone explain the hold my beer joke?
IIRC, you are like 14-ish y/o, so give it a few years before you say "Hold my beer" and jump off a building with only an umbrella as a parachute... :wink:
 
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jack action said:
https://www.dictionary.com/e/slang/hold-my-beer/
ah thanks you, I sort of get it now :D
berkeman said:
IIRC, you are like 14-ish y/o, so give it a few years before you say "Hold my beer" and jump off a building with only an umbrella as a parachute... :wink:
almost 14 yes (shudder, I will be... old... (joking)) - but it's good to know about more stuff either way!
Don't worry, will not be attempting not anytime soon :-p
 
ryan-reynolds-but-why.gif


I just can't help but wonder how this passed peer review in an actual journal. It's a fun exercise, but contributes nothing to the field.
 

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