The Ornithopter Zone grew out of a much earlier effort to bring together flapping-wing enthusiasts around the world. In 1983, Patrick Deshape was trying to find out how to build an ornithopter. No information was available. It was even difficult to find out what had been accomplished so far. Deshaye managed to contact seven people in the US and Britian who shared his passion for flapping wings. He began publishing a newsletter, and these seven people formed the initial core of the Ornithopter Modelers' Society.

In 1992, I took over as editor of the newsletter in order to continue its mission of keeping people connected, and pulling together scattered information on flapping wings. That put me in contact with people all over the world, all working to advance the technology of flapping wings. Gradually, I uncovered more information about the history of ornithopters, while working on my own new experiments.

In 1996, I established an early web site about ornithopters, which gradually developed into the present Ornithopter Zone web site. I added the online store component in 2003 and started selling ornithopters as a full-time job. The online store is an integral part of my effort to raise awareness about flapping-wing flight. It was in response to requests that I began manufacturing and selling ornithopter kits. People needed an easier way to get started in the ornithopter hobby.

Soon, my efforts to raise awareness about ornithopters were really having an effect. Several hobbyists were making their own electric ornithopters, moving beyond the traditional rubber band power. Universities were taking a great interest in ornithopter research. Soon, toy companies began to produce some small radio-controlled ornithopters. This introduced a whole new generation to the idea of mechanical flapping wings, but it also heightened the need for education.

The Ornithopter Zone provides historical background, as well as technical information, for anyone wishing to explore further the idea of flapping-wing flight!

Nathan Chronister
The Ornithopter Zone (contact)