Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Leonardo da Vinci's First Flying Machine

Flying machine – Ms B Fol 74v-75r
Photo of reconstruction of one of Leonardo da Vinci's flying devices courtesy www.leonardo3.net

On this day in 1496 Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519) made his first attempt to launch a flying machine.  It was not successful, so he worked on the invention for several more years before he attempted another launch.  His first flying devices were based on the structure of birds' wings and bats' wings.  He also developed an idea for a helicopter-type device.  Click here to view reconstructions of several of his ideas for flying devices.

Leonardo da Vinci is one of history's most interesting persons for me.  I've read several biographies, and enjoy his paintings.  Who is one of your favorite historical persons and why?

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