For 'Flying Day,' Wings Not Required

A makeshift aircraft being launched into the Moscow River on Sunday, Aug. 9, 2009, during the Red Bull Flugtag Moscow 2009 competition, in which teams fly homemade aircraft off a 9-meter dock. 'Flugtag' is a German word that means 'flying day.'

The White Loving Dragonfly team performing during the competition. The teams in Red Bull Flugtag contests, which are held all over the world every year, are judged by viewers and a jury according to three criteria: the aircraft's wingspan, how unusual it is and the "uniqueness, originality, quality" and distance of the flight.

Teams members launching their Buran aircraft, in the likeness of the Russian space shuttle, into the Moscow River during the competition. The aircraft in the contest must not contain a motor, instead being powered only with one's body.

Spectators taking pictures during the competition.

The Flugpig Ordo Teutonicus team performing at the competition.

The Burning Hearts team performing at the competition.

A Diin Crew team member losing contact with his flying machine made in the shape of balalaika as he falls into the Moscow River during the competition.

The Rostov Rangers team performing at the competition.

A Nofelet team member launching his aircraft into the Moscow River at the competition.