Flight-Testing Stability and Controllability of Otto Lilienthal's Monoplane Design from 1893

Abstract

Successful flight tests with a replica of Otto Lilienthal's patented monoplane glider have been conducted after full-scale wind tunnel tests had proven performance and the potential static stability of the glider design. The replica made from authentic materials (specially woven fabric, wood and steel wires) has been flown tethered to a moving platform, on a rope winch and freely downhill. The tests allow for the assessment of the aircraft's controllability and stability not only during steady flight, but also during start, landing and during of gusts. A short description of the design parameters and methods used will be given together with pilot reports and data gained by video analysis and the evaluation of a limited set of data acquired during flight, including speed, duration and distances flown.