The Desire for the Development of Flight: A Recurrent Theme for Advanced Civilizations?

Abstract

The desire to fly is a recurrent theme in human civilizations. This fascination has led to the achievement of heavier-than-air flight in modern times and possibly in ancient history as well. Oral traditions and ancient manuscripts from around the world contain many detailed references to flying machines of various types. Many different artifacts, recovered in the course of normal archaeological excavations, also display many mechanical and aerodynamic features. The worldwide distribution of these artifacts, written manuscripts, and traditions suggests that some civilizations perhaps developed, or were about to develop, flying machines. Thus, fascination and attempts with flight seem to be a recurring theme for the human species.

Keywords: aircraft—flight—vimanas—ancient aviation—SETI—advanced technology