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Santos-Dumont Airship Number 9

This model represents the ninth of twelve powered airships designed and built in France by Brazilian aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont. The Baladeuse or "little runabout" first flew during the spring of 1903. On June 29, 1903, Aïda D'Acosta became not only the first American, but also the first woman to solo a powered flying machine when she flew the airship for a one-mile trip. Santos-Dumont sold Number 9 to wealthy New Yorker Edward C. Boyce in 1904, who donated it to the Smithsonian four years later. Unfortunately, the airship's rubber gasbag and other components sustained severe damage during transit. Only its engine survives today in the collection of the National Air and Space Museum, where it remains on exhibit in the museum's Early Flight Gallery.

1:16 Scale

Model built by J.C. Smith

Display Status

This object is on display in Early Flight at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.

Early Flight

Object Details

Date

1963

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

MODELS-Airships & Balloons

Model Maker

John C. Smith

Physical Description

Wood and plastic model of Santos-Dumont's No 9 single engine, single propeller airship in gray envelope and natural control structureand engine color scheme. 1:16 scale.

Dimensions

3-D: 71.1 × 38.1 × 25.4cm (2 ft. 4 in. × 1 ft. 3 in. × 10 in.)

Materials

Wood
Canvas
String
Plastic

Inventory Number

A19640047000

Credit Line

Model by John C. Smith

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonian’s Terms of Use.