Zeppelin LZ2

The Zeppelin LZ2 was a German experimental airship first flown in 1906. It was the true "prototype" of the Zeppelin airship. The major mistakes made by Kübler in the design of the LZ1 were not repeated. The designer, Ludwig Dürr, who was to head the design of all subsequent Zeppelins, used triangular-section girders instead of Kübler's flat girders, and elevators instead of a lead weight to control pitch. The final addition was a triangular keel which became a major structural element, as well as a walkway between the gondolas, allowing access to much of the ship. ^{[1] [2]} Though the life of the LZ2 was brief, only two flights, its near sister ship, the LZ3, first flew 9 October 1906 and it was purchased by the German Army and operated as the LZI until 1913.^[3] Before being purchased by the Army, LZ3 made many flights and carried a number of influential passengers, including the German Crown Prince. ^[4]

Specifications

General characteristics

• Length: 128 m (420 ft 0 in)
• Diameter: 11.70 m (38 ft 0 in)
• Volume: 11,300 m³ (400,000 ft³)
• Powerplant: 2 × Daimler piston engines, 63 kW (84 hp) each

Performance

• Maximum speed: 40 km/h (25 mph)
• Range: 1,100 km (680 miles)
• Service ceiling: 850 m (2,800 ft)

References

• Stephenson, Charles (2004). Zeppelins: German Airships 1900-40. Oxford: Osprey.