Science triumphs at boat races

by mdr on Jul. 19th, 2009
in Physical Science, Structure of Matter, Energy Transformations, Scientific Enterprise, and Motion

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USS SMM prepares to launch
Courtesy Mark RyanI watched the Aquatennial's Milk Carton Boat Races today at Lake Calhoun in Minneapolis. One of the early heats included an entry from the Science Museum.
Houston we have a problem!: Most of the ship's hull and all of the bilge had to be removed to correct flotation problems.
Courtesy Mark RyanI don't know who was sailing the ship but dang if science didn't prevail!

The boat looked sea-worthy enough on land but once it was placed into the water, it just didn't want to remain upright. But the hardy crew never despaired, and instead re-engineered the ship (ala Apollo 13) on the spot by removing the entire pesky bottom half and using only the deck to complete the race.
Science prevails!: The crew of the reconfigured USS SMM limps bravely and safely toward the finish line with honor and dignity intact.
Courtesy Mark Ryan

They didn't win by any means, and at times it looked like they weren't using a boat at all, but they worked together to solve problems and got to shore safely.