Antonov An-30 Facts for Kids

Aeroflot Antonov An-30

The Antonov An-30 (known by NATO as Clank) is a special airplane. It was designed to create maps and observe things from the sky. This aircraft is a unique version of the Antonov An-24 plane.

The Antonov An-30: A Sky Mapper
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The Antonov An-30: A Sky Mapper

The Antonov An-30 is not a regular passenger plane. It's built for a very important job: aerial cartography. This means it helps make maps of the Earth from high above. It can also be used for other observation tasks.

What is Aerial Cartography?

Aerial cartography is the science of making maps using photographs taken from an aircraft. The An-30 flies over an area, taking many pictures. These pictures are then put together to create detailed maps. This is very useful for city planning, environmental studies, and even finding natural resources.

Designed for Mapping

The An-30 was developed by the Antonov Design Bureau. This is a famous aircraft design company from Ukraine. The plane first flew in 1974. It was specifically made to carry special cameras and equipment. These tools help it take clear and accurate photos for mapping.

Special Features for Observation

The An-30 looks a bit different from other planes. It has a special nose section that sticks out. This part has extra windows. These windows allow the crew to see the ground clearly. They also help aim the cameras for mapping. The plane has a large area inside for all the mapping equipment. This includes cameras, sensors, and computers. The crew works together to make sure the maps are perfect.

Who Uses the An-30?

Many countries have used the Antonov An-30. It has been used by air forces and civilian mapping agencies. Its main role is to help with surveying land. It can also be used for weather research or monitoring forests. The An-30 is a reliable aircraft for these important tasks.