Zeplin vs blimp
The linguistic root to this word is unclear and it can be explained by onomatopoeic derivation of a sound that an envelope makes when touched by human hand. The term “Blimp” was originated in the US, and it referred to Goodyear’s non-rigid airships, that created for the US Navy from 1925 to 1962. His rigid airships lifting power was much more significant than that of the non-rigid dirigibles previously built. The next generation of dirigible technology was the rigid airship built by Count Zeppelin. Thus, any kind of a flying balloon that can be navigated is considered a “dirigible”. Those balloons became airships after engines that allowed a controlled flight were added to their design. The first hot-air balloons were not controlled and flew with the wind direction. This word refers to flying balloons, which can be navigated. The origin of the term “dirigible” is the French word “ diriger” which means – to direct. The first one is correct, but the second one can be used only for non-rigid dirigibles. Two words are used as “airship” synonyms – dirigible and blimp. The terminology used regarding airships can be confusing, thus it is important to understand exactly which term refers to which vehicle. Those airships are suitable for many kinds of missions and are used in different purposes. The term “Airships” refers to a whole world of steerable Lighter-Than-Air vehicles, capable to control its flight direction and even flying against the wind or across its direction.