Abbas Ibn Firnas: The First Aviator and His Legacy in Early Flight
Abbas Ibn Firnas, a 9th-century polymath from Andalusia, is celebrated for his groundbreaking attempt at heavier-than-air flight. Using wings made of silk, wood, and feathers, he successfully stayed airborne, marking a significant milestone in the history of aviation. His contributions in engineering, astronomy, and glass manufacturing influenced future generations and laid the foundation for modern aerodynamics and flight science.