Cupcakes Aloft!

I would be remiss in my duty as your guide to rocket belts, aircars, and other novel flying machines-- if that is indeed the role I play in your life-- were I not to mention the introduction of the Martin Jet Pack at Oshkosh this week.

It's got twin ducted fans powered by a gasoline engine: " It stands about five feet tall and its rotors are encased in two large ducts that look a bit like cupcakes. It rests on three legs. Mr. Martin has somehow made the future look both sleek and nerdy."

So it is not a jet and it is too big to resemble a backpack. If it works well, though, it will still be a nifty personal VTOL. Endurance is claimed to be over 30 minutes. There are obviously a lot of hurdles to overcome before any customers take Jet Packs home. But hurdles should be no challenge to such a vehicle, right?

Mile-High Quest of the Big-Shouldered Ride-Seeker

By the way, I have a friend who is seeking a ride from Chicago to Denver for the Worldcon next week.

Anybody got a seat available? Anybody passing through on I-80 from points east who might consider being intercepted?

Let me know and I'll put you in touch.