experimentation and their innovation, the Wright brothers identified
and solved the basic problems of flying a heavier-than-air craft.
Three of these problems were:
- Wings with
enough surface area and the proper curve to provide lift.
- A means to
control the direction of the aircraft's movement.
- A lightweight
source of power.
17, 1903, a windy day at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, Wilbur and
Orville Wright made the first successful powered flight in a heavier-than-air
craft. The first flight, made by Orville, was short 120 feet
(36.6 meters) in 12 seconds but it was followed by three
more flights with the brothers taking turns. Wilbur made the last
flight that day. It lasted for 59 seconds and covered 852 feet (260
meters). That distance would have been longer if there had not been
a strong headwind.
You will be asked to make 3 decisions on building an airplane, just
like Wilbur and Orville Wright. Each decision will affect whether
you plane will fly. Remember, learn from history and take hints
from the trials of the Wright brothers. You might also want to take
tips from the physics tips to keep your nose in the air.
with your mission >>