Otto Lilienthal, often referred to as the "Glider King" or "Flying Man," was a German aviation pioneer who made significant contributions to the field of Aviation. Born on May 23, 1848, in Anklam, Prussia, he developed an early fascination with flight after observing birds and their ability to soar.
Lilienthal studied at the Royal Technical High School Berlin, where he completed his education with a degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1870. His interest in flight began to take shape during these years, influenced by the work of Sir George Cayley, who is often called the father of Aeronautics.
After gaining practical experience as a mining engineer, Lilienthal turned his attention back to flight. He conducted extensive research on bird flight, publishing his findings in his book "Der Vogelflug als Grundlage der Fliegekunst" (Birdflight as the Basis of Aviation) in 1889. This work included detailed observations and mathematical calculations which would later influence aircraft design.
Here are some of his notable contributions:
On August 9, 1896, while flying one of his gliders, Lilienthal was caught in a sudden gust of wind, leading to a crash that resulted in a broken spine. He died the next day at the age of 48. His last words, "Opfer müssen gebracht werden" ("Sacrifices must be made"), have become a poignant reminder of his dedication to aviation.
Despite his untimely death, Lilienthal's work inspired many, including the Wright Brothers, who acknowledged his influence on their own experiments. His studies on the control of flight were pivotal in the development of powered aircraft:
Otto Lilienthal Museum - Life
Encyclopedia Britannica - Otto Lilienthal
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum - Otto Lilienthal
Centennial of Flight - Otto Lilienthal