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A pilot at the controls of an experimental Rolls Royce machine known as the 'Flying Bedstead'. Without wings or rotors, it can take off vertically from a horizontal position and is powered by two Rolls Royce 'Nene' engines. The pilot sits on a platform above the engines and the control movements he needs to balance the machine are supplied by compressed air jets. (Photo by Keystone/Getty Images)

A pilot at the controls of an experimental Rolls Royce machine known as the 'Flying Bedstead'.  Without wings or rotors, it can take off vertically from a horizontal position and is powered by two Rolls Royce 'Nene' engines. The pilot sits on a platform above the engines and the control movements he needs to balance the machine are supplied by compressed air jets.   (Photo by Keystone/Getty Images)