Approaching the Speed of Sound | Shell Historical Film Archive

Delve into the science of high-speed flight in this 1956 educational film, the first of a three-part series, and explore the aerodynamics of flight near the speed of sound with animated visuals illustrating key principles

Discover the secrets of sound propagation in the air, the importance of Mach Numbers in high-speed aviation, and the complexities of air flow around aircraft during flight.

As you approach the speed of sound, learn about the critical Mach Number and the formation of shock waves, which can impact aircraft stability and control.

This film also delves into innovative wing designs aimed at reducing drag and maintaining control during high-speed flight. Balancing high-speed and low-speed requirements is a key challenge in aircraft design.

For part 2 in this series - 'Transonic Flight' - please see:    • Transonic Flight | Shell Historical F...  

For more information about Shell’s Historic Film Archive please contact: [email protected]

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Shell’s surprising and captivating Historic Film Archive dates from 1934 and covers a rich mix of topics from technology, science and engineering to craftsmanship, motorsport and travelogue.

The Shell Film Unit, responsible for the content, was a highly celebrated part of Britain’s Documentary Movement. Key figures from that movement were involved, including: Jack Beddington, Edgar Anstey, Arthur Elton, John Grierson, Kay Mander, Stuart Legg and Douglas Gordon.

Its films were wide reaching, often screened in cinemas and through the non-theatric film distribution circuit, which brought film to educational establishments and organisations across the UK. While many films covered technological themes related to Shell’s activities, others were entirely unrelated and served purely to educate the general public.

As Shell innovated in technologies that would provide oil and gas products for the world, the Shell Film Unit also innovated in the technological advancement of film, incorporating graphics and different forms of animation as early as the 1930s.

During WW2 the Shell Film Unit was co-opted into war effort, making films for the Ministry of Information’s film division. Its prowess in technological documentary suited the MoI’s need for technical training films.

While the name and the medium has changed many times over the years, the documentary tradition lives on at Shell. Its contemporary film team is part of Shell’s multi-disciplinary in-house agency, Creative Solutions. It continues making award-winning factual content that informs and educates the public, now usually released on social media platforms.