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THE DOCUMENTATION CENTRE

Researchers, modelers, journalists, writers, enthusiasts, are invited to consult the documentation centre of the Brussels Air Museum, where you will be received with enthusiasm and archival professionalism. The Documentation Center organizes its archives in three very distinct areas of research: prints, photos and films.

The AELR Air Historical Team is made up of members who meet regularly at the Documentation Centre located in the Aviation Hall. Each of them is a specialist in one or more subjects, and they can answer questions according to their particular area of knowledge. They also participate in the enrichment of collections, digitization of old photos and documents, identifying rare aircraft, as well as writing articles for the Brussels Air Museum Magazine.

In principle, the documentation centre is accessible during the opening hours of the

MRA – Royal Museum of Armed Forces – on Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. It is preferable to make an appointment prior to any visit.

Contact: Charles de la Royère – Tel. : +32 2 737.79.60 – Email: docu.aelr@brussels-air-museum.be

> Print Archives

In the archives you will find many old books and periodicals devoted to aviation together with plans and manuals relating to aircraft which have now disappeared and 7,000 ancient aviation books. Also some 15,000 magazines and monthly publications in French and English on civil and military aviation. Hundreds of biographies of Belgian and foreign pilots as well as aircraft documentation of those which were lost or shot down in Belgium during World War II. A rich and comprehensive documentation on aircraft manufacturers. Technical documentation on aircraft used by the Air Force, Sabena or aircraft exhibited at the Brussels Air Museum. Historical and technical books on civil and military aircraft. A space is devoted to astronautics with books, documents and reports from NACA and NASA.

> Photo Archives

A large collection of photographs, partly digitized, can be consulted on site by subscription members. This invaluable source comes from the collection of Mike Terlinden, founder and first president of the Museum Air Section. Over time, this fund has grown through the loan of photo albums and donations from families of pilots, collectors and spotters.

> Film archives

The Centre has many films from all eras, currently being digitized. In in the future, it is planned to organize screening sessions for members.