At first sight reconnoitring from aloft may appear a simple
operation, but a little reflection will reveal the difficulties
and arduousness of the work. The observer, whether he be
specially deputed, or whether the work be placed in the hand of
the pilot himself--in this event the operation is rendered
additionally trying, as he also has to attend to his machine
must keep his eyes glued to the ground beneath and at the same
time be able to read the configuration of the panorama revealed
to him. He must also keep in touch with his map and compass, so
as to be positive of his position and direction. He must be a
first-class judge of distances and heights.
When flying rapidly at a height of 4,000 feet or more, the
country below appears as a perfect plane, or flat stretch,
although as a matter of fact it may be extremely undulating.
Consequently, it is by no means a simple matter to distinguish
eminences and depressions, or to determine the respective and
relative heights of hills.
If a rough sketch is required, the observer must be rapid in
thought, quick in determination, and facile with his pencil, as
the machine, no matter how it may be slowed down, is moving at a
relatively high speed.
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