1. The 1903 Flyer did not use a catapult. It did use a single rail, as taking off from sand is not very practical.
2. There's a lot of question about Pearse's first flight, as to its date and whether it happened at all - because Pearse left behind no photos, drawings, documentation, or the airplane.
3. Edison's claims are fully documented, witnessed, patented, and litigated.
2. There's a lot of question about Pearse's first flight, as to its date and whether it happened at all - because Pearse left behind no photos, drawings, documentation, or the airplane.
3. Edison's claims are fully documented, witnessed, patented, and litigated.