The day the plane was invented – level 3

17-12-1903

Since the beginning of our civilization, people have had a dream: to overcome the laws of nature and fly in the air. In the 18th century, it was discovered that hot air lifts up and the first balloon was constructed. The first airship was made 100 years later. However, people wanted a flying machine that could fly like birds.

In 1892, two brothers, Orville and Wilbur Wright, open a bicycle shop in the United States. They are also interested in building the first plane. Their business with bicycles is successful. So, they have money and time to work on their dream.

They test 200 different types of wings before they finally find the right shape after 4 years. With such wings, they then build their first glider and lift off with it.

After that, a mechanic from their shop makes a special type of a light engine. They attach the engine and propellers to the glider. However, the first flight fails.

On December 17, 1903, Orville Wright is preparing for the second motor flight in history. This attempt is successful. The plane takes off and flies. The flight lasts 12 seconds and covers a distance of 36 meters. The brothers are extremely happy they can fly.

Difficult words: lift up (to go up in the air), airship (a big flying machine filled with gas), glider (a light plane that has no engine), lift off (to go up from the ground into the air), propeller (two long pieces of wood or other material that turn around very quickly and make a plane fly).

What were the main factors that enabled Orville and Wilbur Wright’s successful flight?

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