The journey from starring at the birds to flying along with them.
Two thousand years ago, the flight of objects started with flying kites in China. Later in the 15th century, Leonardo da Vinci narrated several rational designs related to flight that didn’t rely on the basics sciences of flight(wanna know more..blogs in basic aerodynamics of flight, history of aviation). Further, with advancements in technology people started to stare into the birds and decode the science behind their flight( Yes, I mean the wright brothers). These technical experiments led to the life of ships in the air. Also, you can learn more about the basics of aerodynamics here.
Lighter than air vs Heavier than air
The concept of vacuum airships arose in the heads of creators when the Montgolfier brothers demonstrated the flight of hydrogen-filled air balloons in Paris. Airships originally called, ‘dirigible balloons’ that are steerable advanced in Europe during the renaissance. Although, proven by the fact that it was used in the world wars, the heavier than air aircraft took over.
The craze for people into flying never got satisfied.
The dragon volant which is four pairs of wings attached to the dragon is considered as the most sophisticated and elaborate built before the 19th Century. Baloon jumping was technically replaced by tower jumping wherein men tie a wing-like structure on their backs and jump out of towers flapping their artificial wings.
Evolution of modern aircrafts
Considering all the evolutions discussed as of now we are nearing the final design of the aircraft. The flying of aircraft using flight control was patented by Mathew Piers and Watt Boulton. The next advancement included refining and defining the modern aircraft. Otto Lilienthal of Germany(also called the Flying man or gliding man), flew along with levers and made more than 2000 glides that lead to his death. The next model included a frost aircraft glider which also failed in functioning. Langley’s aerodrome substantially sustained the unpiloted flight, with engine-driven heavier than air concept and was termed ‘ first capable of flight’.
After years together, the Wright brothers accomplished their invention of flight in powered fliers.
This led to the use of all-metal aircraft in World wars. The 21st century provided a drastic advancement in fuel advancement and fuel diversification. The use of aircraft spread over medical evacuation, cargo, and military, agricultural, and much more due to its varied uses. Found this journey over the history of flight interesting? Do not forget to check out our latest blogs on Aviation on our page. Until we meet next time, Bye explorer!