Flight studies

During his first stay in Milan, Leonardo dedicated himself to designing flapping-wing flying machines capable of imitating the structure and propulsive movement of a bird’s wings. He observed birds closely, studying their flight techniques and body structure. However, since humans cannot generate enough energy to move wings mechanically, flapping-wing flight was not feasible. He then turned to gliding or soaring flight, where propulsion relies entirely on air currents. This led to the creation of the delta-winged apparatus and the flying sphere.

Leonardo also designed some scientific instruments, such as the hygrometer and the anemometer. For aerial navigation, he used an inclinometer. His study of flight led him to investigate the behavioral analogies between air and water.