<p>These things happen when you are dancing on the bleeding edge of technology.</p>
<p>There was a time when helicopters were considered deathtraps. The B-26 Marauder, one of the most devastating and beloved medium bombers of WWII, was nicknamed “The Widowmaker” during test flights and early use. The Harrier was considered impossible to fly at one point.</p>
<p>The Osprey is a brilliant concept that may very well be far ahead of its time, but this nation didn’t rise to the top of the technological heap by refusing to push the envelope and take chances. The desert around Edwards AFB is strewn with the wreckage (and body parts) of failed efforts that led to extraordinary advances. </p>
<p>Here’s something to ponder: Edwards AFB was originally known as the Muroc Army Air Field. The base was renamed on December 8, 1949 in memory of test pilot Glen Edwards, who died while testing the Northrop YB-49 Flying Wing. The Flying Wing was panned by some as too dangerous to develop.</p>
<p>Seen any flying wings in action, lately? Here’s a hint: Google “Stealth Bomber”. ;)</p>