Contributor Library of Congress

Update
10-21-2011
Content Type
Student Resource
Grade Level
Third grade, Fourth grade, Fifth grade, Sixth grade, Seventh grade, Eighth grade, Ninth grade, Tenth grade, Eleventh grade, Twelfth grade
Object Type
Image
License
Read the fine print

Students and teachers can view this photograph which shows the first powered, controlled, sustained flight. Orville Wright is at the controls of the machine, lying prone on the lower wing with hips in the cradle which operated the wing-warping mechanism. Wilbur Wright, running alongside to balance the machine, has just released his hold on the forward upright of the right wing. The starting rail, the wing-rest, a coil box, and other items needed for flight preparation are visible behind the machine.