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Stits SA-2A Sky Baby, 1950s. Creator: Ray Stits
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Stits SA-2A Sky Baby, 1950s. Creator: Ray Stits
On a dare from another pilot, Ray Stits designed and built the Sky Baby at his home in Riverside, California, to prove that he could build the world's smallest man-carrying airplane. To test fly the tiny aircraft, Stits hired Robert H. Starr who took off on the first flight in April 1952. During the spring and summer, Starr flew the SA-2A at air shows around the nation before Stits retired the airplane in November. Starr reported that the Sky Baby could top 299 kph (185 mph) at full speed and touched down for landing at about 129 kph (80 mph)
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Media ID 23872123
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1950s Aeroplane Air And Space Museum Air Transport Aircraft Airplane Aviation Biplane Compact Craft Aircraft Fifties Flight Nasm National Air And Space Museum Plane Small World Record Smallest
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the remarkable Stits SA-2A Sky Baby, a groundbreaking creation by Ray Stits in the 1950s. Driven by a dare from another pilot, Stits embarked on an audacious mission to construct the world's smallest man-carrying airplane. Working tirelessly at his home in Riverside, California, he brought his visionary concept to life. To test fly this tiny marvel of engineering, Stits enlisted the expertise of Robert H. Starr who fearlessly took off on its maiden flight in April 1952. Throughout spring and summer that year, Starr astounded audiences nationwide with breathtaking displays at air shows. The SA-2A proved its mettle as it soared through the skies at incredible speeds; reportedly reaching over 299 kph (185 mph) when pushed to its limits. Its graceful landings were accomplished at approximately 129 kph (80 mph), leaving spectators awestruck. This photograph not only captures a significant moment in aviation history but also serves as a testament to human ingenuity and determination. The compact yet robust design of this biplane is composed of steel alloy chromoly ferrous alloy clear plastic wood fabric rubber paint materials - an amalgamation that exemplifies technological advancements during that era. Preserved within the National Air and Space Museum's collection, this iconic aircraft stands as a symbol of American innovation and achievement. Ray Stits' pioneering spirit has left an indelible mark on aviation history while inspiring future generations to push boundaries and reach for new heights in aerospace technology.
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