From Earth to space: Some common applications of jet propulsion systems

The jet engine is one of the most celebrated outputs of modern science and technology. It has allowed mankind to perform many feats previously thought impossible, from creating a sonic boom to reaching beyond the firmament into outer space. Over the years, other applications have been developed for the jet engine, some of which are presented below:

Rockets
They may range from the rockets used for space exploration to the ones that explode. Jet engines are used to provide rockets with tremendous speeds that make for escaping the pull of gravity or chasing their targets.

Image Source: aviationweek.com

UAVs
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles are remote-controlled drones equipped with sensors and cameras. They are used for remote surveillance of areas much too hostile for human troops. Some of them are powered by propellers, but others, particularly those that emphasize speed, are jet-powered.

Image Source: ridelust.com

Cars
Rocket cars are powered by jet engines. In coms cases, vehicles used for drag racing are modified to incorporate jet engines that boost their max speed. Hybrid cars that run on jet engines have also been under development for some years now.

Image Source: techdigest.tv

Boat
While it may be argued that jetboats use almost the same principles as jet engines, real jet-powered boats exist mostly for racing purposes.

Image Source: cracked.com

Motorcycle
For some enthusiasts, the only thing that would make their two-wheel ride cooler is a jet engine. Indeed, some motorcycles are being modified by their owners to become what are known as jetbikes.

Image Source: Sergei Tsvetkov

Dryers
Because of the immense air and heat blown out by jet engines, they have become ideal machines for removing unwanted snow and drying wet surfaces. They are popular in Russia, where they are used to clear away unwanted snow from roads and airports.

Decades since the invention of the jet engine and it has been used for purposes beyond the inventors’ original goal. With sufficient demand and creativity, there is little doubt that new ways of using the technology will come out soon.

Eric Visselli has been a part of Auxiliary Power Systems, an affiliate of aeronautics giant Hamilton Sundstrand. Visit this Twitter page for links to aeronautics-related news and information.