Summary:
"Die Luftschiffahrt der Gegenwart" by Hauptmann Hermann Hoernes is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The work delves into the developments and principles of aeronautics, specifically focusing on airships and balloon flights. The author aims to inform a broad audience about advancements in aviation technologies while making technical knowledge accessible to enthusiasts and the general public. The beginning of the text outlines the prevalent interest in aeronautics, fueled by frequent newspaper articles about balloon flights and airship technology. Hoernes expresses a desire to fill the gap in literature by offering a comprehensive overview of recent developments in the field, including aerodynamics, meteorological observations, and significant balloon voyages. He sets the stage for detailed discussions on the properties of air, the dynamics of wind, and the design and engineering of various flight mechanisms, indicating a robust blend of scientific inquiry and practical application in the unfolding chapters. (This is an automatically generated summary.)