Picture 2; well atleast I have never looked right in to the sun with a signal mirror.

Picture 3 and 4; nobody is holding the mirror?

Looks like the reflective side of the mirror is facing them...

To me,it appears that the final illustration is a bit catywampus - the signal mirror doesn't appear to be in the right position. While the article may not be a shining example of proper mirrow usage, it is almost as good as the instructions printed on the really good mirrors. I eagerly await Rafowell's informed comments...

Keep trying....

The Cessna is shown clearly in front of the sun, whereas in use the fireball would obscure the Cessna ... It's okay as far as any of these articles go; a person really needs to get a signal mirror and use it.

Yes, but, not the significant issue.

If at first you don't succeed.....

If you have caught a nice fireball, you should not have to use your outstretched fingers to aim said fireball at the target; I believe the "V for victory technique is generally advised when you are using a "non-fireball"mirror.

How many more chances (guesses) do we get?

True, but that goes with the discussion of using any reflective object, so it's correct.

As to how many guesses? It depends on...gotta run, back later....

One should not "tilt" the mirror in order to flash it; the natural tremors of the hand, perhaps enhanced by coffee jitters, will do just fine.