Helmi stood in the sleigh workshop, arms crossed, staring at the old physical wind tunnel tucked into the corner. It was a relic of the past—power-hungry, expensive to run, and requiring hours just to set up a single test. Digital simulations had been considered, but with the complex aerodynamics of Santa’s sleigh, they would take months to process on even the fastest digital systems. “Not an option,” Helmi muttered, glancing at the clock. Christmas Eve wasn’t waiting for anyone.

Then Helmi’s eyes lit up. The analog supercomputer they had built earlier for weather simulations could be repurposed. Aerodynamics, after all, was just another flow problem. They quickly configured the system, feeding in parameters for airflows, sleigh shape, and reindeer velocity. The analog machine whirred to life, processing the complex equations in real time, with its dials, oscillators, and feedback circuits painting a clear picture of how the sleigh would perform in flight.

As data streamed in, Helmi made adjustments directly on the sleigh: smoothing edges, tweaking the runners, and reshaping the canopy for better drag reduction. Within hours, the sleigh’s aerodynamics were optimized, and Helmi leaned back with a satisfied grin. “Real-time simulation, no months of waiting, and no ridiculous energy costs. This sleigh is going to slice through the skies like a dream,” they said, patting the now-sleek design.