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Gusmaos Passarola airship, 1709
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Gusmaos Passarola airship, 1709
Gusmaos Passarola airship. Historical artwork of the Passarola airship design that was proposed in 1709 by the Portuguese priest and naturalist Bartolomeu de Gusmao (1685-1724). Gusmao presented this design to King John V of Portugal, and was awarded a professorship of mathematics at the University of Coimbra, and a lifetimes pension to support his work on the design. The design was similar to that of a kite, with the upper canopy intended to provide lift from either the wind, or a set of bellows. A scheduled public test never took place, but Gusmao is reported to have tried descending from hilltops with similar designs. Artwork from Astra Castra (Hatton Turner, London, 1865)
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Media ID 6441757
© SHEILA TERRY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1700s 1865 18th Century Air Craft Air Ship Astra Castra Aviation Aviation Pioneer Aviator Bellows Design Flight Flying History Of Flight History Of Science Inventor Kite Portugal Portuguese Transport Transportation 1709 Turner
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This print showcases the historical artwork of Gusmaos Passarola airship, a groundbreaking design proposed in 1709 by Portuguese priest and naturalist Bartolomeu de Gusmao. The intricate illustration depicts the visionary concept that Gusmao presented to King John V of Portugal, which earned him prestigious recognition and support for his work. Resembling a magnificent kite, the Passarola airship featured an upper canopy intended to harness lift from either the wind or a set of bellows. Although a scheduled public test never took place, reports suggest that Gusmao himself attempted descents from hilltops using similar designs. The colored illustration, dating back to 1865 and sourced from Astra Castra publication by Hatton Turner in London, transports us back to the 18th century when human fascination with flight was taking its first steps towards reality. It symbolizes not only technological innovation but also represents an important milestone in aviation history. Bartolomeu de Gusmao's passion for exploration and invention led him to become one of Europe's early aviation pioneers. This remarkable artwork serves as a testament to his ingenuity and determination. As we gaze upon this image, we are reminded of how far humanity has come in our quest for flight while honoring those who paved the way for modern aviation technology.
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