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I suppose today, this should be titled 'How many of these will get out the computer?'

Future flying thingies.

A fascinating aviation archaeological artefact. The British were at the forefront in the science or theory behind the potential use of catapults to launch aircraft given the pioneering scientific work of George Cayley back in the 19th century, although Wikipedia credits American Samuel Langley with the first use of one, albeit in an unsuccessful launch of his aircraft.

Aviation pioneer and Smithsonian Secretary Samuel Langley used a spring-operated catapult to launch his successful flying models and his failed Aerodrome of 1903. Likewise the Wright Brothers beginning in 1904 used a weight and derrick styled catapult to assist their early aircraft with a takeoff in a limited distance.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aircraft_catapult

The development of the steam catapult, which Britain did so much to perfect, and then so rapidly forgot how to implement, vide. the current Royal Navy aircraft carriers, is an interesting story as well, although some in the US, as ever, tend to want to claim this development as theirs as well.

Hat tip to Scotsman C.C. Mitchell

Note the advanced naval use of the catapult by the British, Japanese, French and Germans as well, as highlighted in this very good video.