'When Giants Ruled the Sky: The U.S. Navy’s Zeppelin Program' Webinar

While today’s skies buzz with small drones, a century ago they were dominated by colossal airships, unmatched in size, luxury, and ambition. Why did the U.S. Navy bet its future on a fleet of airborne giants, and what ultimately led to their tragic downfall? It’s time to uncover the untold story of America’s 1920s and '30s Zeppelin program and the incredible flying machines that dared to reshape the future of aviation.

Join New York Adventure Club as we delve into the extraordinary story of the U.S. Navy’s Zeppelin program, a fleet of massive airships designed to patrol the Pacific and safeguard against threats before radar existed — a plan filled with innovation, ambition, and unheeded warnings of disaster.

Led by John J. Geoghegan, author of White Elephant Technology: 50 Crazy Inventions That Should Have Never Been Built, And What We Can Learn From Them, our journey into the world of these awe-inspiring airships will include:

• A look at the Navy’s ambitious Zeppelin program, including the USS Akron and USS Macon, which were the largest and most advanced aircraft of their time
• The revolutionary concept of flying aircraft carriers, capable of launching and retrieving planes mid-air for defense and reconnaissance
• A comparison of Zeppelin capabilities versus early airplanes, revealing why these airships were once heralded as the future of transportation
• Rare insights into the overlooked warnings of a catastrophic design flaw that contributed to one of aviation’s greatest tragedies
• Stunning visuals, including rare photographs and archival footage, showcasing the grandeur and ingenuity of these “leviathans of the sky”

Afterward, we'll have a Q&A with John — any and all questions are welcomed and encouraged.

Can't make it live? Don't worry, you'll have access to the full replay for one week!

See you there, virtually!

*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar

**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you're using the latest version of your internet browser

***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week

****If the event has already passed, but it's been less than a week, you can still register for it on our website's active replay section!

About John

John J. Geoghegan specializes in reporting on unusual inventions that fail in the marketplace despite their innovative nature. His articles on WETech inventions have appeared in such publications as the New York Times Science section, Popular Science and Smithsonian's Air & Space magazine. He is also the author of WHEN GIANTS RULED THE SKY: THE BRIEF REIGN AND TRAGIC DEMISE OF THE AMERICAN RIGID AIRSHIP published by The History Press.

Disclaimer

By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service.

Categories: Virtual, Moments in History

Event Venue

Online