James May flies the U2

[Simpo Two]

(Apologies if repost)

Should we have a whip-round and buy Eric a trip? I'll puy 50p in.


Is there some sound scientific reason why the cockpit isn't pressurised?

[Conian]

repeat and repost, but an epic show!

[FourWheelDrift]

If it's on again it's not a repost as the original airing was last year.

[Conian]

Hmmm, personally I think a repeat wont bring much new to a thread, but hey i'm not a moderator, I'm easy like a sunday morning

[Eric Mc]

Yep - I'm up for this.

[SamHH]

Apparently, it is pressurised but only to an equivalent of 29,500 feet. My guess is that means the fuselage can be weaker and lighter than if it were pressurised to a more normal level.

[Simpo Two]

That would make sense, yes. Thought why bother with 29,500 feet - you'd still lose consciousness very quickly.

The Shuttle is fully pressurised but that's rather chunkier with a few more horsepower!

Edited by Simpo Two on Monday 22 November 21:08

[Eric Mc]

The Shuttle (as are all spacecraft) pressurised with its own air supply.

Aircraft are pressurised by pulling in, heating and then compressing outside air.

[davepoth]

Simpo Two said:

That would make sense, yes. Thought why bother with 29,500 feet - you'd still lose consciousness very quickly.

The Shuttle is fully pressurised but that's rather chunkier with a few more horsepower!

Edited by Simpo Two on Monday 22 November 21:08

My thinking is that it stops the cabin heating and cooling too much - I doubt condensation is desirable.

[blueedge]

SamHH said:

Apparently, it is pressurised but only to an equivalent of 29,500 feet. My guess is that means the fuselage can be weaker and lighter than if it were pressurised to a more normal level.

I spoke to someone I know who has an in-depth knowledge and involvement with the aircraft, and this is indeed the reason as it goes back to the original design and the need to keep it as light as possible.