Space exploration has become a hot topic lately, with constant announcements about new technological advancements in the field. The curiosity surrounding what lies beyond our planet has sparked a new era of exploration, reminiscent of the adventurous sea voyages of centuries past. In the AnimaGraffs video above, we delve into the intricate construction and equipment of a sixteenth-century explorer’s sailing ship, showcasing everything from the keel to the fish davit.
While the ship featured in the video is a fictional creation, it draws inspiration from iconic vessels like the Golden Hind, in which Francis Drake sailed around the world. Incorporating elements from historical ships like the Mary Rose and Vasa, this model represents the early age of sail when ships ventured beyond coastlines and internal waters.
Despite its advanced design for the time, the ship offered limited comfort to its crew of around 80 individuals, who endured basic living conditions and sustenance during long transoceanic journeys. The allure of discovering distant lands and the promise of riches, often through unauthorized piracy activities, drove these sailors to embark on daring adventures aboard ships like the Golden Hind.
While my childhood fantasies didn’t involve piracy, learning about the components of a sailing ship like the “poop deck” still filled me with excitement. Jacob O’Neal’s detailed breakdown of the ship’s construction in a 40-minute video showcases the evolution of ships during the age of sail, providing insight into their complexities. As we await the age of space exploration, some of us can’t help but imagine embarking on interplanetary voyages akin to the journey of the Golden Hind to Mars.
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