Why use tensors to model flight dynamics?

What is it about?

Tensor flight dynamics models flight dynamics with Cartesian tensors that are invariant under all coordinate transformations, even time dependent transformations. It elevates Newton’s Second Law to a law that is not only invariant under inertial coordinate transformations, but under all transformations, thus bringing Newtonian mechanics under the umbrella of Einstein’s General Relativity. Its roots go back to the late 1960’s and a paper that was presented at the Second Atmospheric Flight Mechanics Conference in 1972. The Atmospheric Flight Mechanics Committee has selected that paper as most influential for flight dynamics of that period. This paper reviews the history and introduces the kinematic and dynamic concepts. The Special and General Theories of Relativity are briefly highlighted with two of Einstein’s favorite examples, and their consequences for classical mechanics are discussed. Recent applications of tensor flight dynamics are summarized.

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Why is it important?

Using tensors is the modern way to model flight dynamics

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