Graphic of the first ascent of LZ1 on July 2, 1900 courtesy of Wikipedia
For all of us Caledonian Steampunk enthusiasts
From Wikipedia:
The first Zeppelin flight occurred on July 2, 1900 over the Bodensee. It lasted only 18 minutes before LZ1 was forced to land on the lake after the winding mechanism for the balancing weight broke. Upon repair, the technology proved its potential in subsequent flights (the second and third flights were in October 1900 and October 24, 1900 respectively), beating the 6 m/s velocity record of the French airship La France by 3 m/s. This performance, however, was unable to convince possible investors. With his financial resources depleted, Count von Zeppelin was forced to disassemble the prototype, sell it for scrap, and close the company in 1901.[5]
It was largely due to support by aviation enthusiasts that von Zeppelin's idea got a second (and third) chance and could be developed into a reasonably reliable technology. Only then could the airships be profitably used for civilian aviation and sold to the military.
Thanks, Mr. Zepplin!
Now may I suggest that we all take out our favorite lighter than air ships for a little spin today? Yes! I think that is a grand idea! See you up there.
