The jet engine is a modern invention based on an ancient discovery. Almost 2,000 years ago, a man called Hero built a small engine which was powered by jets of steam. However, it was not until the late 20th century that Hero's ideas were developed commercially as a source of cheap power.

The first modern jet engine was built in the early 1930s by a British scientist, Frank Whittle. Whittle showed the Government his ideas for a jet engine. However, the Government though the jet engine wouldn't work. They didn't give him any money.

Today, the jet engine is used in ships, hovercraft, power stations and factories. The jet engine has made travelling faster, cheaper and safer.

Perhaps there are other discoveries today which will be made in to great inventions 2,000 years from now!