Samuel Langley Collection
Samuel Langley was a pioneering American scientist and inventor who made significant contributions to the fields of aviation and astronomy
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Samuel Langley was a pioneering American scientist and inventor who made significant contributions to the fields of aviation and astronomy. Born in 1834, Langley's fascination with flight led him to conduct groundbreaking experiments with model airplanes powered by steam engines. In 1896, Langley successfully flew an unmanned, steam-powered aircraft called the Aerodrome over the Potomac River in Washington D.C., marking one of the first successful flights in history. This achievement laid the groundwork for future advancements in aviation technology. Langley also made important discoveries in astronomy, serving as director of the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory from 1890 until his death in 1906. He conducted research on solar radiation and developed new methods for measuring atmospheric conditions. Despite facing setbacks and criticism throughout his career, Samuel Langley's innovative spirit and dedication to scientific exploration left a lasting impact on both aviation and astronomy. His work continues to inspire generations of scientists and engineers striving to push the boundaries of human knowledge.