Lilienthal Glider Model

 I want to build a Lilienthal Glider Model. For those who don’t know what that is, Otto Lilienthal was the German pioneer who—decades before the Wright Brothers—built and flew gliders in the 1890s. He became known as the “Glider King,” and his most iconic design was the Normalsegelapparat, the first aircraft ever produced in series. He would hike up hills, strap in, and launch himself into the air with nothing but wings he designed and stitched together. It’s bold, inspiring, and exactly the kind of project that pulls me in.

Why This Project

I’ve been fascinated by the early days of flight. Lilienthal didn’t have computers, wind tunnels, or CAD software—just observation, math, and relentless curiosity. His work laid the foundation for powered flight. Building a model of his glider feels like a way to step back in time, to touch that same spirit of experimentation and imagination.

The Plans

The good news is that Lilienthal’s drawings are still accessible today. His 1895 U.S. Patent includes the original schematics:
👉 US Patent drawings (1895) – Flying-Machine

The Otto Lilienthal Museum in Germany also shares reconstructions, replicas, and even model kits:
👉 Lilienthal Museum – Models & Shop

If you’d like to go deeper, researchers at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) rebuilt and tested a full-size replica based on these plans. Their work gives insight into the aerodynamics and materials:
👉 DLR Research on Lilienthal Gliders

How-To Resources

I found a detailed step-by-step guide for a wooden model, perfect for hobby builders who want to get hands-on:
👉 Dahimo Lilienthal Glider Model Build Guide

And here’s a video walkthrough of the model being built and flown:

My Next Steps

I’ll start with the 1:9 scale kit from the Lilienthal Museum shop. From there, I want to compare it against the patent drawings, maybe even draft my own modified version in CAD to better understand Lilienthal’s genius.

This project isn’t just about wood, glue, and fabric—it’s about reconnecting with that spark of human curiosity. Lilienthal once said, “To invent an airplane is nothing. To build one is something. But to fly is everything.”

So here I go, stepping into history in my own small way. Wish me luck.

Link: https://www.dahimo.com/lilienthals-glider