Manuscript B, folios 73v, 74r, 74v, 75r

Mechanical Eagle

Leonardo designed several flying machines on Manuscript B. Because he was inspired by nature, he knew he had to focus on the study of birds to understand their flying techniques.

This flying machine was one of the most complex ever designed and was inspired by the eagle. In fact, the small flaps mimic the raptor's feathers, letting air through during the up-stroke and closing during the down-stroke. The pilot's head movements control the tail through a headband.

However, a human cannot flap its wings fast enough to fly. The reason for the impossibility of using this machine is then mainly related to the amount of energy required for flight.

Other machines