Blackhawk, Inside and Out

If you ever wondered what a US Army Blackhawk helicopter looked like on the inside and out, take a look at this video I made. This particular helicopter was part of a show at my local airport. The crew was very accommodating, allowing us wing nutz to take a seat at the controls. Here’s the video:

The control panel is not one of those multi-function displays, but rather clusters of individual instruments. You’ll also notice the spartan construction, no fancy woodwork or even smooth sheet metal. Just a raw panel with instruments bolted fast. Makes it easy to replace and repair, which is an important factor in military operations. Since I don’t have my helicopter rating, there was no chance of a jaunt in the this bird, not that it was in the cards if I had the ticket. Still, it was interesting to meet the crew, check out their machine, and learn a few things.

Published in: on September 26, 2011 at 12:08 pm  Leave a Comment  
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Aruba’s Windmills

Several years ago, a series of ten large windmills were set up in Aruba. Each one has the capability to generate about 3 megawatts. Given the steady tradewinds that blow in from the east, these turbines run near full power for about 9 months of the year. Here’s a view of several taken from a helicopter.

They stand about 300′ above the ground, facing east into the breeze. You can see the rugged shore at the edge of the frame. Here’s a look at a single unit.

In earlier posts, I showed how the bases were constructed. They’re rather stout, and they better be, because sometimes that easterly blows in excess of forty knots, generating a tremendous amount of pressure against the tower. There is talk of more turbines coming to the island. In the mean time, large reciprocating power plants (think big diesel engines) have been installed at the WEB plant in Balashi. Either way, Aruba enjoys one of the most reliable power grids in the Caribbean.

Bon dia.

Published in: on September 21, 2011 at 2:30 pm  Leave a Comment  
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De Palm Island, Aruba

De Palm Tours operates an island attraction just a few hundred yards off shore of Aruba. In the next photo, you’ll see it from above.

You’ll find plenty of activities on De Palm Island. Snorkeling, water slides, beaches, and snacks all await your arrival. A small boat takes you from the main island out here and runs regular service back and forth all day. Bring your swimsuit, your towel, and a smile. You’ll have a great time.

Bon dia from Aruba.

Published in: on August 24, 2011 at 11:49 am  Leave a Comment  
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Zeerovers from the Air

During my latest helicopter flight over Aruba, I managed to grab some still photos of some favorite locations. This one is of Zeerovers, the fisherman’s wharf in Savaneta.

Zeerovers is located to the left of the frame where you see the boats docked. This place is great for a cold drink, watching the fisherman land their catch, and the men with knives filet it with amazing skill. They’ll also fry up some of that fish for you, too. There’s an exciting scene in my next novel, Hacha’s Gold, here as well. Over the next couple of weeks, I’ll be posting more of these photos from the air so stay tuned to The Bent Page.

Bon dia from Aruba.

Published in: on August 23, 2011 at 10:14 am  Leave a Comment  
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