June 2018 PMID 29950513

Flying in reverse: kinematics and aerodynamics of a dragonfly in backward free flight.

Ayodeji T Bode-Oke, Samane Zeyghami, Haibo Dong

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Mentions

Peak: 4 in Mar 2022

across 4 sources since Jul 2018

Extended reach

91,068

potential audience

Total likes

776

Video views

82,499

Mentions per month

Jul 2018 – Apr 2025

Where it's discussed

X / Twitter5 posts
Blogs3 articles
News2 articles
YouTube1 videos

AI synopsis

What people are saying

Discussions highlight curiosity and appreciation for the complexity of insect flight, exemplified by comments like 'more complex than I had guessed' and references to scientific fields such as 'entomology' and 'kinetics.' The tone varies from casual observations to scientific curiosity, reflecting moderate engagement and recognition of the study's relevance.

AgreementNeither agree nor disagree

The discussions show a mixed response, with some users recognizing the significance of understanding dragonfly flight but not expressing strong disagreements or support.

InterestModerate interest

The discussions reveal a mild curiosity, especially from users who mention trying to imagine or study the flight mechanics.

EngagementModerate engagement

People show active engagement through detailed comments, such as imagining insect flight mechanics and referencing scientific interests.

ImpactNeutral impact

Overall, the conversations suggest a moderate acknowledgment of the importance of the research but without overwhelming consensus on its revolutionary impact.

Abstract in brief

This study examines how a dragonfly flies backward, focusing on its wing and body movements, force generation, and flow patterns using high-speed cameras and computer simulations.
During backward flight, the dragonfly keeps its body upright and adjusts its wing movements—particularly increasing the angle of attack during the upstroke—to produce higher aerodynamic forces, which can be two to three times its body weight.
The research also reveals mechanisms like force vectoring and wing-wing interactions, especially the role of vortex structures, that help the dragonfly generate sufficient lift and control during reverse flight.]

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All mentions

The secret to the dragonfly’s backwards flight

Science Magazine · Jul 2, 2018 75,609 views

Innovative Insect Flight Tracking Using Drone-mounted Systems

This video explores advanced techniques for recording insect flight in the field, including new tracking systems and drone integration. It highlights the mechanics of insect backward flight, wing adjustments, and…

Science Magazine · Apr 4, 2025 6,890 views

Katsushi Kagaya

@katzkagaya · X

Mar 24, 2022 · 3 shares · 3,694 followers View post →

ABE U-ichi (kamex)

@kamex · X

Mar 24, 2022 · 3 shares · 1,421 followers View post →

Chauliodus

@ophiacodon · X

Mar 24, 2022 · 3 shares · 618 followers View post →

maz

@dynamicsoar · X

Mar 24, 2022 · 4 likes · 3 shares · 2,411 followers View post →

Al Dugan

@AlJDugan · X

Jan 4, 2021 · 2 likes · 402 followers View post →