In 1903, the New York Times predicted it would take millions of years to perfect flight
The New York Times editorial from 1903 predicted human flight would take 1-10 million years. The editorial responded to Samuel Langley's failed flying machine attempt.
Influential figures like Newcomb, Lord Kelvin, and Melville were skeptical about flight. Despite widespread doubt, the Wright brothers achieved flight 69 days after the editorial.
The erroneous prediction has been highlighted as a historic misjudgment in technological advancement.
Influential figures like Newcomb, Lord Kelvin, and Melville were skeptical about flight. Despite widespread doubt, the Wright brothers achieved flight 69 days after the editorial.
The erroneous prediction has been highlighted as a historic misjudgment in technological advancement.
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