New experiments have revealed an aerodynamic trick that
dragonflies use to fly efficiently — a trick that engineers could exploit to
improve the energy efficiency of small aerial vehicles with a similar design.
FLICK TRICK By flapping its hind wings slightly before its forewings, a dragonfly can hover more efficiently than it would by flapping them in sync.
Log in
Subscribers, enter your e-mail address for full access to the Science News archives and digital editions.