A legend of science: Abbas ibn Firnas
An astronomical centre, a postage stamp, an airport and a crater on the Moon seem to have nothing in common. However, they are all united by the figure of the man after whom they are named – Abbas ibn Firnas.
This outstanding scientist, who left a lasting mark on history, was not only an inventor but also a physician, engineer, poet, astronomer and chemist. Moreover, he became the first person in the world to achieve controlled flight on artificial wings, and is also known as the “Sage of Andalusia”.
Early life
Abbas ibn Firnas was born in 810 in the town of Ronda, near Cordoba, Spain. Possessing exceptional abilities, he dedicated his life to science and became a key figure in the scientific community of Andalusia, which was then considered a vital centre of learning, comparable to the “House of Wisdom” in Baghdad. Scholars of this era made significant contributions to the development of both religious and secular sciences and Ibn Firnas occupied a central place in these endeavours.
Inventions
- Water clock
Ibn Firnas created a water clock known as the “Al-Magatha”, which measured time using water flowing into a special vessel. This practical mechanism revolutionised timekeeping.
- Glassmaking
While glassmaking had long roots in Egypt, Ibn Firnas significantly improved the process. He independently developed a formula for producing glass from sand, eliminating the need for Andalusia to import it.
- Magnifying glass
By studying the properties of glass, Ibn Firnas contributed to the development of magnifying glasses and lenses, which facilitated further scientific experiments with optics.
- Planetarium
Ibn Firnas created a mechanised planetarium that demonstrated the motion of objects in the solar system. In the 9th century, this device was a remarkable scientific achievement.
- Parachute and hang glider
The dream of flight inspired Ibn Firnas to create the first prototypes of a parachute and hang glider. In 852, he jumped from the minaret of the Great Mosque in Cordoba using a wooden structure to slow his fall. This umbrella-like device ensured a soft landing, although he suffered minor injuries.
After this, Ibn Firnas continued his work and, 23 years later, in 875, he completed a controlled flight with an improved model. The launch was highly successful, but the final landing required still further refinement.
Legacy
Thousands of years later, Abbas ibn Firnas remains renowned. He used his talents and knowledge for the benefit of society and science, for which he was subsequently revered.
The Astronomical Centre in Ronda, an airport in northern Baghdad, a postage stamp in Libya, a monument designed by José Luis Manzanares Japon in Cordoba, and a crater on the Moon (named after him in 1976) were named in his honor.
