The myth of Daedalus holds special interest because a human is flying by invention. We know of course that wax and feathers alone are not capable of lifting and carrying a person through the air but here is an example of mankind flying by its own devices.

Has science destroyed the myths of ancient times? We find them amusing but no longer the center of our lives. More discoveries have been made in the past 50 years than in all the years before and that pace is increasing.

The most popular story form today is called "science fiction". Here myth and science confront us with our power and our weaknesses. We don't need myths to explain many of the powers of nature. Now they explain the powers of technology and the future.

Our broad look at simpler times reveals that humankind's fascination with flight involves much more than simply building something that can leave the ground. Although flight is now a reality and the stars are coming into reach, flying remains a means of escape, power and freedom.

Explore Space ... Not Drugs!
Hear what astronauts have to say about staying drug-free.
Last modified: Tue Jul 1 15:39:07 PDT 1997

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