Samuel Langley

Samuel Langley was an American astronomer and aviation pioneer, born in 1834. He is best known for his work in aerodynamics and for developing early powered aircraft, including the Langley Aerodrome, which attempted to fly in the early 1900s. Despite his innovative designs, his aircraft did not achieve sustained flight. Langley also contributed to astronomy, serving as the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution and conducting significant research on solar radiation and the study of the sun. His efforts laid groundwork for future aviation advances and he played a crucial role in the scientific exploration during his time.