High-speed imaging technique reveals mechanics of insect flight

In an open-access study published on PLOS Biology, it is explained that Dipteran flies are amongst the smallest and most agile of flying animals, and that their wings are driven indirectly by large power muscles, which cause cyclical deformations of the thorax that are amplified through the intricate wing hinge. In order to visualize the movements and deformations, researchers from various European academic institutions developed a technique that uses a particle accelerator, high-speed cameras, infrared LED lighting, and a detector system to apply time-resolved X-ray microtomography, which provides 3D visualizations of the blowfly’s internal movements. >>>Read more

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