From Blog to a Book: The Wonderful Life of Santos=Dumont Is Now on Amazon

By Luiz Pagano

A research and illustration project that began more than a decade ago has become a published book. Discover the story behind The Wonderful Life of Santos=Dumont: Lighter than Air.

A journey that began with a blog

In 2009, I began sharing a project that brought together two of my enduring interests: historical research and visual art. My goal was to explore the life of Alberto Santos=Dumont, the Brazilian inventor and aviation pioneer, and to transform that research into an illustrated book.

The blog, A Maravilhosa Vida de Santos=Dumont, became a place to collect discoveries, examine historical evidence, reconstruct events and share illustrations with readers. I also created a separate blog, Colabore com o Livro “A Vida de Santos=Dumont”, to invite readers to contribute suggestions and help the project grow.

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At the time, the book was still a work in progress. There were historical documents to investigate, images to reconstruct, technical questions to resolve and countless details to understand before the story could be presented as a coherent visual narrative.

Today, I am delighted to share a new chapter in that journey: The Wonderful Life of Santos=Dumont: Lighter than Air is now available on Amazon.

Continue the Journey - Get Your Copy on Amazon.com

Researching the man behind the machines

Santos=Dumont is often remembered through a handful of celebrated achievements: his dirigibles, his experiments around the Eiffel Tower and his pioneering work in aviation. But I wanted to explore a broader world.

What did his daily life look like? How did he develop his inventions? Who were the people around him? What did contemporary observers see when his airships appeared above the streets and parks of Paris? ... What was the color of his dirigibles?

To investigate these questions, I drew on Santos=Dumont's own writings, historical documents, contemporary accounts, photographs and other published research. His memoirs were particularly valuable because they allowed me to compare his recollections with the visual and documentary evidence available.

The research extended beyond the most famous flights. I explored the technological culture of the Belle Époque, the people who helped make aviation possible, and the ways Santos=Dumont's inventions became part of public life.

His story reaches into engineering, mechanics, fashion, transportation, friendship and the extraordinary optimism of an age in which the sky was becoming a new frontier.

The book is AI free, all images were my own oil and acrylic paintings

Reconstructing history through illustration

One of the central challenges of this project was turning historical evidence into images.

A photograph rarely tells the whole story. It may show a machine from only one angle, capture an event at a particular moment or leave important details outside the frame. Reconstructing a scene therefore requires more than drawing what is visible. It involves comparing sources, studying the surrounding architecture and understanding how the technology actually worked.

In July 2014, I received the Mérito Cabangu Medal at Fazenda Cabangu, the birthplace of Alberto Santos=Dumont, in recognition of my work to preserve and promote the legacy of Brazil’s aviation pioneer through historical research, illustrations, and my blog.

I used this approach to examine some of Santos=Dumont's most dramatic experiences, including the accident involving his dirigible No. 5 near the Eiffel Tower in 1901. 

By studying a photograph by Nadar, comparing historical images and visiting the location, I developed a reconstruction of how the airship approached the buildings and met its fate. The aim was to investigate the event visually rather than simply repeat a familiar description.

 A historical reconstruction based on photographic evidence, research and the study of the original location.

These reconstructions became an important part of my method: historical research could guide the illustration, while the act of drawing could reveal questions that deserved further investigation.

The challenge of reconstructing Aída de Acosta

Another memorable example was my work on Aída de Acosta, the American woman who flew Santos=Dumont's dirigible No. 9 in 1903.

I wanted to portray her as a young woman of nineteen, the age she was at the time of that historic flight. The difficulty was that I could not find a suitable photograph showing her at precisely that age.

I found photographs of Aída from later in her life, but I needed additional evidence to develop a plausible reconstruction of her younger appearance.

One clue appeared in a photograph of Santos=Dumont's apartment: a portrait visible in a frame on his desk. By examining that image, studying the available photographs and considering contemporary descriptions and distant views of Aída aboard the No. 9, I was able to develop a reconstruction.

The process combined artistic judgment with digital techniques. I used a Fibonacci mask to help reconstruct basic contours from the available visual evidence.

It was an example of how a seemingly small detail in a historical photograph could open a new path of investigation.

Exploring the world of Santos=Dumont

As the project developed, I became increasingly interested in the objects, places and relationships that surrounded the inventor.

His dirigibles were not isolated machines. They were part of a larger world of workshops, mechanics, public demonstrations, sporting events and technological experimentation.

I had the privilege of studying the "Martian" engine that Dumont used to power the skis and seeing how it really worked

I researched the story of his Peugeot automobile, his relationship with Louis Cartier and the development of the wristwatch associated with his name. I also explored the public fascination with his inventions and the way newspapers, photographs, postcards and other objects helped spread his image.

These subjects offered a different perspective on Santos=Dumont. They showed how his life connected aviation with the everyday culture of the early twentieth century.

The surviving documents also helped bring lesser-known moments into view: letters, postcards, menus, contemporary reports and images that offer glimpses of the people and places around him.

Learning from the experience of flight

Historical research can also benefit from direct experience.

My own experience flying in a balloon gave me a different perspective on the descriptions of aerial travel that I encountered in Santos=Dumont's writings. 

Looking down from a balloon changes one's sense of distance, scale and orientation. The landscape becomes a different kind of map, and familiar objects take on unfamiliar proportions.

Such an experience cannot reproduce the conditions of Santos=Dumont's pioneering flights, but it can help an illustrator think more carefully about what an observer might see from the air.

For me, this was part of the broader process of moving between written descriptions, historical evidence and visual interpretation.

Experiencing a balloon flight offered a personal perspective on the world Santos=Dumont explored from the air.

...this helped me illustrate boys flying Dumont's airship like a kite from his point of view

From an online project to a book

The original idea was to bring research and illustration together in a book that readers could explore at their own pace. The blog allowed the project to develop in public, one discovery at a time.

Over the years, the work grew into an extensive collection of illustrations and historical research. The resulting English-language edition contains more than 220 illustrations and combines documented history with visual storytelling.

Publishing the book is a milestone, but it is also a continuation of the original idea: to make Santos=Dumont's life accessible to readers through a combination of historical inquiry and art.

The title, The Wonderful Life of Santos=Dumont: Lighter than Air, reflects the focus of this first volume on the world of balloons and dirigibles. It invites readers to look beyond the familiar milestones and explore the people, inventions and experiences that shaped the early history of flight.

The book is now available on Amazon

To everyone who has followed the blog, examined the illustrations, shared suggestions or simply been curious about the project: thank you.

What began as a long-term research and art project has now become a published book, available to readers in English.

If you are discovering this work for the first time, I hope the book will introduce you to the remarkable world of Santos=Dumont. If you have followed the project for years, I hope you will enjoy seeing this journey take a new form.

The Wonderful Life of Santos=Dumont: Lighter than Air — now available on Amazon.

The story of flight is not only about machines. It is also about imagination, persistence and the people who dared to explore what had not yet been achieved.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

Luiz Pagano
Author, illustrator and independent researcher

Santos=Dumont et La Fille de Suresnes

In the summer of 2013, when I was still working for Pernod Ricard, I had the chance to be part of a working group dedicated to On Trade strategy. It was an enriching experience that took me to many places, but one particular moment from Paris, on July 19th, stands out in my memory.

That day, when I returned to my hotel, I was surprised to find a message at the reception. A group of readers of this very blog had reached out — they wanted to take me out to celebrate the birthday of Santos=Dumont.

I was touched by the gesture and, of course, I accepted.

Le Mood na Champs Elysées - Restaurante localizado onde foi a residencia de Santos=Dumont em Paris

They took me to a place called Mood, a stylish restaurant and dance venue. What made it extraordinary was the location — it stood right where Santos-Dumont had once lived, on the Champs-Élysées. The atmosphere was electric with music, conversation, and an unspoken reverence for the man who once floated over Paris in his airship.

The most exciting day of the trip was July 20, 2013, the day of Santos=Dumont's 140th birthday. On that day, some French fans of the blog 'A Vida Maravilhosa de Santos=Dumont' took me to dinner at Mood, an apartment that belonged to S=D.

Over dinner and wine, this lovely group of Dumont enthusiasts shared with me a story I had never heard before — a touching tale they called "La Fille de Suresnes". They recited it in French, with passion and pride. It went like this:

San Moritz, 1928

In the quiet hall of a clinic, Santos-Dumont notices a young woman from afar. Her face, her manner of crossing her hands… something about her awakens old memories. He hesitates, breathes deeply, and with effort, approaches her.

Beautiful stained glass window in S=D's apartment in Paris

— Mademoiselle… forgive my intrusion, but your face brings back beautiful memories.

— What an honor… but I’m afraid I don’t know which memories you speak of.

— Perhaps you don’t need to know. Some images remain in the heart without name or date.

The young woman brightens.

— Perhaps I can help. My aunt lived in Suresnes and was passionate about you. She collected your photos, newspaper clippings… she used to say you would fly by with your airship, spotlight on, like an angel lighting up the skies of Paris and her bedroom window.

Just then, an elderly lady with carefully arranged hair and bright eyes approaches. The young woman introduces her. The older woman smiles, surprised and deeply moved.

— Monsieur Dumont… you cannot imagine the joy of seeing you again. I used to blow kisses from my window when you flew by in the Balladeuse, and that little gesture made me believe in the impossible. I had your photos hidden in my notebooks, news clippings… even a signed handkerchief.

Dumont looks at her with care.

— Now I remember… you were the girl at the window. With each flight, I waited for your gesture as one waits for a sign from the heavens.

She grows emotional, trying to stifle a laugh. He, moved by a sincere joy, leans in with difficulty and offers a calm, respectful embrace. For a moment, the weight of the years seems lighter, the fog of troubled nerves gives way to the light and peace of an improbable encounter.

Back at the clinic, days later, the doctors noted a shift in Dumont’s mood — the result of a long-lost affection reignited, a true star of light among the thousands of darkened windows in the night of Paris. A healing gift to a brilliant mind and a tormented heart.

“They say it’s just an anecdote — but who knows?”

To this day, I carry this story with me. Whether it is fact or fiction, it holds the kind of poetry that history sometimes forgets.

AI Generated Image

Original text in French:

San Moritz, 1928

Dans le hall silencieux de la clinique, M. Santos=Dumont observe une jeune femme au loin. Son visage, sa manière de croiser les mains… quelque chose en elle ravive de vieilles réminiscences. Il hésite, respire profondément et, avec effort, s’approche :

— Mademoiselle… pardonnez mon intrusion, mais votre visage m’évoque de beaux souvenirs.

La jeune femme, surprise, lui sourit avec douceur.

— Quel honneur… mais je crains de ne pas savoir à quels souvenirs vous faites allusion.

— Peut-être n’est-il pas nécessaire de savoir, répond-il, en s’éloignant légèrement. Certaines images restent dans le cœur sans nom ni date.

La jeune femme s’anime alors :

— Peut-être puis-je vous aider. Ma tante vivait à Suresnes, elle était passionnée par vous. Elle collectionnait vos photos, des coupures de journaux… Elle racontait que vous passiez en volant avec votre dirigeable, le projecteur allumé, comme un ange illuminant le ciel de Paris et la fenêtre de sa chambre.

À ce moment-là, une dame aux cheveux soigneusement relevés et aux yeux encore brillants s’approche. La jeune femme la présente, et la dame sourit, surprise, l’émotion retenue.

— Monsieur Dumont… vous ne pouvez imaginer la joie que c’est de vous revoir.

J’envoyais des baisers par la fenêtre quand vous passiez avec le Balladeuse, et ce geste un peu fou me faisait croire à l’impossible.

J’avais des photos de vous cachées entre mes cahiers, des articles de journaux… même un mouchoir signé.

I decided to illustrate "La Fille de suresnes" as I imagined her

Dumont l’observe avec attention.

— Maintenant je me souviens… vous étiez la jeune fille à la fenêtre. À chaque vol, j’attendais ce geste comme on attend un signe du ciel.

Elle s’émeut, tente de retenir un rire discret. Lui, déjà emporté par une joie sincère, s’incline avec difficulté et lui offre une étreinte calme, respectueuse. Un instant, le poids des années semble plus léger, la brume des nerfs agités laisse place à la lumière et à la paix d’une rencontre improbable.

—

De retour à la clinique, les médecins notèrent quelques jours plus tard un changement dans l’humeur de Dumont — la trace d’un ancien attachement retrouvé, une véritable étoile de lumière parmi les milliers de fenêtres éteintes dans la nuit parisienne. Une offrande de guérison à un esprit de génie et un cœur tourmenté.

Voo noturno de Santos=Dumont pelas ruas de Paris

« On dit que c’est une simple anecdote, mais qui sait ? »

----

As if it were a gift, at the end of the trip, we saw an incredible captive balloon flying over the sky of Paris - it was as if the spirit of Santos=Dumont himself sent us a message of 'good flight'.

Professor Miguel Nicolelis Receives The 'Homem Voa" Merit Award

The Homem Men Flies Award (Prémio Mérito Homem Voa in Brazilian Portuguese) ceremony, held last Saturday, July 20th, the anniversary of the 151st year of birth of Santos=Dumont, at the Museu Catavento, was an event full of tributes and celebrations, highlighting scientific and technological excellence in Brazil. Below, we present the main moments of the ceremony.

Henrique Lins de Barros, founding dean of the Santos=Dumont Cultural Institute, alongside Luiz Pagano, creator of the Mérito Homem Voa award, and the honoree, Porfessor Migeul Nicolelis. "Very happy to see that something that started as 'we need to do something to increase Brazilians' self-esteem in relation to science', today, 10 years later, has turned into this event." Pagano said.

The opening marked the beginning of a memorable night, the Força Aerea Brasileira ceremonialist, representing the Instituto Cultural Santos=Dumont, registered and thanked the presence of the authorities and guests, whose names were listed in a specific annex.

Hymns

The ceremony continued with the playing of the Aviators' Anthem, a tribute to Brazilian aviation and the legacy of Santos=Dumont, and then, everyone present was invited to sing the Brazilian National Anthem.

The host, architect Ricardo Pisanelli, took the floor to welcome those present and thank everyone for their presence. Jacques Kann, executive director of Catavento Cultural e Educacional, highlighted the importance of the partnership with the Santos=Dumont Institute.

In the photo, Professor Nicolelis receives the award from Alexandre Villares and Alberto Dumont Villares Neto, members of Alberto Santos=Dumont's family

The Commander of the Fourth Regional Air Command, Major-Brigadier Luiz Cláudio Macedo Santos, highlighted the legacy of Santos=Dumont and the importance of the event. Alexandre Barrozo Amaral Villares, great-grandnephew of Brazilian Father of Aviation (Santos=Dumont), praised the relevance of the award and the event.

Man Flies Merit Award Protocol

Luiz Pagano, artist and creator of the award, explained the concept and importance of the Mérito Homem Voa Award, highlighting its symbolism and connection with the figure of Santos=Dumont. Professor Tarcísio Roberto Barbosa, president of the Institute's Advisory Board, presented the justification for choosing the honoree and read Professor Miguel Nicolelis' CV.

Considerations from the Dean of the Institute

Dr. Henrique Lins de Barros, founder and dean of the Institute alongside Marcos Villares (who was not present at the event), gave his thoughts on the legacy of Santos=Dumont and the importance of science in Brazil.

Prize Delivery

The most anticipated moment of the night was the presentation of the award to the honoree, professor Dr. Miguel Nicolelis. Alexandre Villares and Alberto Dumont Villares Neto, members of Alberto Santos=Dumont's family, presented the diploma.

Neiva Paraschiva made her remarks before handing over the Man Voa Merit Director certificate, highlighting the importance of recognizing Brazilian scientific contributions.

Words from the Honoree

Professor Miguel Nicolelis, visibly moved, gave an inspiring speech, expressing his happiness at being compared to Santos=Dumont, both challenged the status quo of their time, showing that what is considered impossible can be accomplished. Nicolelis again mentioned his grandmother, Dona Lygia, who encouraged him to read, study and learn about Santos=Dumont.

For final considerations and thanks to the benefactors, Professor Ricardo Jacob de Magalhães, acting president of the Santos=Dumont Institute, was called. He thanked everyone involved and highlighted the success of the event.

Closing

The event ended with a celebration of Santos=Dumont's legacy and the promise to continue promoting science and technology in Brazil. Those present left inspired by the stories of overcoming and innovation that filled the night with pride and hope.

The Merito O Homem Voa Award: Celebrating Brazilian Science and Innovation

 

"We are honored to announce that Professor Miguel Nicolelis will be this year's recipient of the Merito Homem Voa Award! 🌟"

This announcement from the Instituto Cultural Santos=Dumont, led by Marcos Villares, great-grandnephew of the inventor, marks a significant moment in Brazilian science and innovation.

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The creation of the Merito Homem Voa Award was envisioned by Luiz Pagano during a conversation with Nicolelis in 2014. The idea emerged from the need to promote and celebrate scientific and technological excellence in Brazil, which has often been overlooked due to a lack of engagement, support, and national self-esteem. "No one better than Professor Nicolelis to receive this year's award as an honorary recipient," said Ricardo Magalhães, director of ICS=D, who saw the award as an opportunity to change this mindset and highlight Brazilian achievements on the global stage.

Brazil has yet to win a Nobel Prize, and this absence is often attributed to the lack of mobilization to value our scientific contributions. The Merito O Homem Voa Award was conceived to begin a movement to fill this gap, encouraging a new mentality that Brazilians are as good (or better) in science, discoveries, and technology as anyone else.

In 2014, we introduced the handkerchief that belonged to Santos=Dumont, which received signatures from pioneers such as Professors Nicolelis and Juliano Pinto, pioneers in bipedal mobility. The handkerchief also features the autograph of Marcos Pontes, the first Brazilian astronaut, and stamps from the ISS, along with a design of Santos=Dumont and the "Coração Alado" (Winged Heart) by Romero Brito. The Merito O Homem Voa Award was born from the efforts of that day.

The award's symbolism is deeply connected to Santos=Dumont, our "Father of Aviation," who believed in the power of unity and innovation for the advancement of humanity. 

The symbol of this entire ideology appeared with a handkerchief  that belonged to Dumont, which was taken to the ISS by astronaut Marcos Pontes, which has his signature and stamps from the International Space Station, later also autographed by other illustrious Brazilians, including Nicolelis and Romero Britto, who designed a wonderful "winged heart".

This handkerchief, which has already wiped away Dumont's sweat and traveled to space, is an emblem of our country's aspirations and achievements.

Santos=winged Dumont, inspired by Romero Britto's winged heart, represents the award and its ideology

The first award was presented in 2016 in Tokyo, and since then, the event has gained relevance, culminating in tomorrow's celebration, which promises to be a milestone in the history of Brazilian science.

One of the first illustrations made by Pagano to represent Dumont's inventive spirit in art nouveau style, alongside one of the most important inventions, the Demoiselle

Miguel Nicolelis, one of Brazil's greatest scientists, whose achievements are remarkable, is an internationally recognized physician and scientist. He was named one of the top twenty scientists in his field by Scientific American and was among the 100 most influential Brazilians by Revista Época in 2009. Nicolelis was the first scientist to receive two awards from the US National Institutes of Health in the same year and the first Brazilian to have an article published on the cover of Science magazine.

This award was made possible by the extraordinary efforts of Professor Ricardo Magalhães, a passionate supporter of Santos=Dumont and aviation, a highly respected professional within the Air Force, and a great friend.

Professor Ricardo, a physics professor from USP, went above and beyond, earning the admiration of many to make this award a reality.

📅 Date: July 20th (Santos=Dumont's birthday)

📍 Location: Museu Catavento

🔗 Confirm your presence on Sympla via the QR Code in the image.

Join us to celebrate this achievement and be inspired by stories of perseverance and innovation that fill our country with pride! This event will also feature the presence of friends, family members of Santos=Dumont, and representatives of the Aeronautics.

To confirm your presence, register via the QR code in the post! Let's celebrate and promote Brazilian science and innovation together.

Cartier Santos=Dumont Rewind: a Homage to the South American Genius

 

The Relationship between Cartier and Santos=Dumont goes far beyond their friendship. As one of the most recognized brands in the watchmaking world, known for combining genius, tradition, and modernity, Cartier has taken another bold step that would excite both Louis and Alberto S=D. Introducing the Santos-Dumont Rewind, a watch that truly embodies the spirit of the Father of Aviation.

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The name of Santos=Dumont, widely considered the patron of the first commercially available men's wristwatch dating back to 1904, is experiencing an intriguing resurgence with this incredible piece.

With its iconic lacquered back, in this case, a carnelian red, and the famous rounded-square case, the Santos=Dumont Rewind features a curious and innovative attribute: it tells time backward. This is a tribute to the brilliant Brazilian inventor known for his innovative spirit and for challenging established conventions.

The new edition retains the 430 MC movement, which is an ultra-thin Piaget 430 MC movement. The case dimensions are 31.4 mm in diameter, 43.5 mm in length, and 7.3 mm in height, providing a super thin and comfortable design to wear.

On the dial of the Santos=Dumont Rewind, the Roman numerals are arranged so that, when read clockwise, they go from 12 at the top, to 11, then 10, and so on. This setup, which some might consider a "gimmick," is presented in a way that demands to be taken seriously, especially considering its $38,400 price tag in a platinum case.

Why Does It Run Counterclockwise?

The most fascinating aspect of the Santos=Dumont Rewind is its connection to the history of sundials. Modern mechanical watches run clockwise because they were invented in the Northern Hemisphere, where sundials mark the hours in that direction. In the Southern Hemisphere, however, sundials mark time counterclockwise.

Therefore, this Cartier watch serves as a reflection not only on the historical and geographical influences on the evolution of watches but also references the brilliant yet under-recognized scientists of the Southern Hemisphere.

Ultimately, this ingenious product of fashion, beauty, and technology pays a significant tribute to Santos=Dumont himself, representing the multidimensional thinking of the inventor who gave us wings.

With the Santos=Dumont Rewind, Cartier not only honors a South American genius but also challenges traditional watchmaking conventions.

However, as with any current topic, there are those who disapprove of the invention, claiming that Santos=Dumont was a very superstitious man and did not like anything that went backward. It is said that he only reversed his automobiles in very specific situations and might not have liked having his name associated with something that was going in the opposite direction.

We have yet to receive an official statement from the Instituto Cultural santos=Dumont (Santos=Dumont Cultural Institute), the institution that represents the family's interests.

This watch, with its time-telling from a Southern Hemisphere perspective, symbolizes Santos=Dumont's innovative spirit and invites watch enthusiasts to see time in a new way. It is a fitting tribute to an inventor who always thought outside the box and continues to inspire generations with his genius and vision.

The Santos=Dumont Crater

 

It's easy to find the Santos-Dumont Crater - Look at the moon, the photo is already positioned for Brazilian territory - For those who find it easy to see Saint George on the Moon, locate the space between the two large seas (darker circular spots), which represents the horse's head and legs during rearing. The crater is exactly where the saint's hand holds the spear.

... in the mountains of Promontorium (cape) Fresnel, which is part of the large mountain range known as the Apennine Mountains.

Did you know that Alberto Santos=Dumont, the internationally renowned father of aviation, had a lunar crater named in his honor on his centenary? He is one of the few to receive such recognition, and the happy coincidence doesn't stop there; it's that man walked on the moon on his 96th birthday, on July 20, 1969 - a day considered as the second giant leap for humanity, since the first was Dumont's first flight.

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Located in the mountains of Promontorium Fresnel, on the eastern shore of Mare Imbrium, the Santos=Dumont crater is a striking feature of the lunar landscape. With a diameter of 8.8 km and a depth of 2 km (though recent measurements suggest a slightly greater maximum depth), it stands out as a point of interest for both astronomers and enthusiasts of aviation and history.

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) decided to choose the crater located at LAT: 27° 42' 00" N, LON: 04° 48' 00" E (selenographic coordinates), a simple impact crater, which is part of the large mountain range known as the Apennine Mountains, on the eastern shore of Mare Imbrium. It was the first lunar crater to be named after a Brazilian. The lunar geographical feature is near the landing site of the Apollo 15 mission."

Speculations about the Operation and Proposal of S=D # 18 - Hydroglisseur

With Number 18, Santos=Dumont not only improved the Demoiselle but also contributed to the efforts in making high-speed luxury boats a reality, alongside inventing a revolutionary hydraulic system.

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Santos=Dumont went beyond enhancing the Demoiselle; he transcendentally innovated by introducing a disruptive hydraulic system. This not only challenged the conventions of the time but also paved the way for a new chapter in the evolution of aviation and aquatic means—everything started with a bold bet.

The Audacious Wager

The tireless researcher with a fertile imagination, Santos-Dumont, seemed more like an amateur of feats than of lasting successes.

Know more about this bet 

After circumnavigating the Eiffel Tower with his first dirigible balloon and executing wise maneuvers in Trouville with another balloon, he immersed himself in aviation. Without abandoning other modes of aerial locomotion, he dreamed of conquering the liquid element with his hydroplane. During a historic dinner among high-profile sportsmen on July 24, 1906, Mr. Charron, perhaps influenced by the communicative warmth of the banquet, made serious and encouraging challenges:

Mr. F. Charron bet 10,000 francs against Mr. Bleriot's 2,000 that it wouldn't be possible to reach 100 km/h on the water with any apparatus before April 1, 1908, covering only 1 km but in both directions, and the average of the two experiments would be considered. Arbiter: Mr. René de Knyff.

Mr. F. Charron bet 50,000 francs against Santos=Dumont's 5,000 that the latter couldn't achieve 100 km/h on the water before April 1, 1908, with the same timing method as before.

Mr. F. Charron and Marques de Dion bet 5,000 francs against Archdeacon and Santos-Dumont that they wouldn't see an airplane fly a distance of 500m without touching the ground before February 1, 1908.

René Doncières – "Les nouveaux Santos=Dumont," La Nature, n. 1796, October 26, 1906, p. 344

Santos-Dumont piloting his Number 18 - Hydro Glisseur. His hydraulic steering system anticipated Francis Devis' invention by more than 10 years.

The Santos=Dumont #18 Hydro glisseur wasn't just an isolated experiment; it was a crucial milestone that provided essential insights for the subsequent development of Demoiselle and, by extension, modern airplanes. Conceived to study the interactions between wings and water, Number 18 initiated a significant chapter in aviation history.

Unfortunately, Dumont didn't win the bet.

Speculations on Operation and Piloting

The analysis of Number 18 raises fascinating speculations about its operation and piloting. Given Santos-Dumont's distant position from the engine, intriguing questions arise about the controls and onboard systems.

In this photo, the compressor seems to be at the stern, protected by a cover (possibly made of wood).

The suggestion of hydraulic controls for the submerged fins is an innovative approach, providing an efficient means to control the vessel's elevation in the water.

Mysterious Contraption

In this photo, we see the two volumes covered with canvas, the 100hp Antoniette engine, and the mysterious object just below the engine.

Santos=Dumont conducted various experiments with the Hydroglisseur, and by observing photos and videos from that time, a mysterious device becomes apparent. This device is often covered with a canvas or wooden casing, sometimes located under the 16-cylinder, 100hp Antoniette engine, occasionally covered with a canvas with lateral stripes. Other times, the mysterious device appears at the stern, just behind Dumont's saddle. What could it be?

The mysterious device seems to be an air compressor with outlet towers, valves, cables (and perhaps a centrifugal regulator). It is likely a hydraulic system where pistons and actuators move and hold the fins in a diving and rising position, allowing Dumont to conduct buoyancy experiments.

In the video, it's evident that it's some kind of air compressor, seemingly not used to inflate the floating pontoons, as they are structured. Nor is it for circulating water in the radiator since a centrifugal governor is observed, a characteristic part of steam engines, with two spheres gently spinning, typically used to balance force in gas outlets.

The mysterious device is likely a hydraulic system, with a pump propelling gases into a cylinder transmitting pressure to pistons and actuators. This aligns with the advanced function of controlling altitude on the water's surface.

In this October 6, 1907, Le Pèlerin 1605 photo, we can clearly see what appear to be air pistons acting as actuators on the stern fin.

Manipulating the fins (rudders) to adjust the ascent or descent, according to Dumont's control, involves complex hydraulic components, revealing a high degree of sophistication in the design. Perhaps, it was one of the first hydroplanes to rise in the water using hydrofoils to achieve greater speeds.

By examining the pistons and cylinders, we can extrapolate the operation of the control system for the fins on Santos=Dumont's Number 18, based on a clever hydraulic system (from the photos, it could well be a 'Bowden cable' system, a mechanism that uses a thin wire filament moving inside a flexible outer casing, similar to bicycle brakes).

Let's continue with the hydraulic system, in which a cylinder containing pressurized fluid is central to the operation, strategically positioned valves play a crucial role in regulating the flow of hydraulic fluid. When Dumont wants to adjust the position of the fins, he precisely operates these valves, opening and closing as needed.

observing the pistons and cylinders it is possible to extrapolate the functioning of the fin control system in Number 18 by Santos=Dumont, based on an ingenious hydraulic system. In this system, a cylinder containing fluid held under pressure is central to the operation, strategically placed valves play a crucial role in regulating the flow of hydraulic fluid. 

In the diagram above, we see how from his seat Dumont could have controlled the submerged ailerons to understand and master hydrodynamic forces, similar to aerodynamics:

Diving Position

To position the fin in a diving position, Dumont skillfully manipulated the valves, opening and closing them precisely to control the flow of hydraulic fluid through the cables to the opposing pistons, generating targeted pressure. This resulted in a coordinated movement of the fins to the desired diving position.

Ascending Position

When Dumont decided to raise the fin's position, he reversed the position of the valves to direct the hydraulic fluid in the opposite direction through the cables to the pistons. This reverse action creates pressure that propels the pistons to lift the fins, allowing the aircraft to return to the surface or reach a desired ascending position.

But which fin moved? Front or rear fin?

The proposal to use a piston to generate pressure and control the front hydrofoils (fins) is ingenious. The integration of a hydraulic system would drive a piston, which in turn would raise the front fin.

Assuming a system to lift the vessel to move the front fin, the simplified tubes painted in red demonstrate the pressure lines controlled by Dumont to lift and maintain the front fins' position.

Observation of the photos is crucial for a more accurate understanding. The rear fins seem to have a tilt actuator, suggesting that these would be the moving parts influenced by the proposed hydraulic system. Therefore, the movement could be centered on the rear fins, allowing the adjustment of the vessel's tilt in the water through the piston driven by the hydraulic system.

Different from the photo above, here we see a system to lift the vessel to move the rear fin. The simplified tubes painted in red move the rear fin in the diving direction, forcing the stern to lower and the bow to rise.

The Marvelous Antoinette Engines

The power-to-weight ratio of these engines enabled the first flight of a heavier-than-air craft in 1906 (read the article).

In May 1906, Gastambide and Levavasseur founded the Antoinette company (named after Gastambide's beautiful daughter) in Puteaux, located at 28, rue des Bas-Rogers, for the mass production of V8 and V16 engines. Louis Blériot, in search of an engine, contributed funds and was appointed the company's vice president.

The lovely Antoniette Gastanbide, daughter of one of the partners, gave her name to this engine factory that contributed significantly to the history of aviation and navigation. The company's ads highlighted the excellent power-to-weight ratio of the engine, which could be carried on the shoulders with ease, enabling Santos=Dumont's first heavier-than-air flight.

In just two months, a V8 engine with 50 hp at 900 rpm was developed in the small Puteaux factory. This time, the engine operated correctly, and several units were built (around a dozen). Santos-Dumont successfully used it in his first flights in Bagatelle in October and November 1906, with numbers 17 and 18.

Practically all French aviators adopted this engine, driven by Dumont's successes. The engine was surprisingly light compared to the power it delivered - in an advertisement from that time, a man is depicted carrying a 16-cylinder engine block on his back without much effort.

Levavasseur introduced a new V8 engine with 24 hp, weighing only 36 kg, and a V16 with 100 hp, weighing 150 kg.

Controls of S=D #18

Extrapolating how Dumont piloted his hydroglisseur implies assuming that the hydraulic system described above was indeed used, given that the assumptions above are correct.

Santos=Dumont, piloting his Hydroglisseur #18, demonstrated mastery in using the complex hydraulic system to control the elevation, direction, and tilt of the vessel on the water. Positioned at the stern, the pilot handled the steering wheel similar to the automobiles of that time, like the 1907 Renault.

Initiating the aquatic experience, Dumont started the engine with a button located in front of the steering wheel. The propeller's gearing was skillfully performed through a lever positioned to his left. The aviator (now a ship captain) not only navigated the waters but also elevated himself to a new level of control by exploring the hydraulic system.

To steer the vessel to the right or left, Dumont adjusted the altitude on the water's surface using the steering wheel connected to a system that activated pistons. This system, analogous to the wings of an airplane, moved the port and starboard fins. When desiring to turn right, the pilot adjusted the left fin for elevation and the right fin for descent, providing refined control over the Hydroglisseur's trajectory (possibly this control was not so efficient, as in some photos Dumont appears to be manipulating a tail rudder).

Thus, Santos=Dumont navigated not only on the waters but shaped his course with precision, exploring the nuances of the innovative hydraulic system he introduced.

It's important to note that the tests with the hydrofoils were conducted when #18 was towed by a high-speed boat.

Hydroplanes and Hydrofoils

Needless to say, Dumont had not just 20 inventions because, considering all the solutions and achievements conceived, the number of creations easily surpasses 300.

Above left, a drawing of the first British patent granted in 1869 to Emmanuel Denis Farcot, of his hydroplane with lateral fins; on the left, the test of the Fenaille hydroplane on the Seine River in the late 1920s, with an aerial propeller of 5m x 2.25m. Below, the modern W-Foil, reaching a constant speed of 40 knots, with incredible fuel consumption ranging from 7 to 10 gallons per hour, can keep the unique laser-cut fir wood hull above the surface. The company plans to organize classic races with the twelve units currently in production.

Both the hydroplane and hydrofoil had been patented during Dumont's time; however, he conducted the first practical tests on existing ideas. The first evidence of a hydrofoil on a ship appears in a British patent granted in 1869 to Emmanuel Denis Farcot, a Parisian, who "by adapting to the sides and bottom of the vessel a series of inclined planes or wedge-shaped pieces, which as the vessel advances will have the effect of lifting it in the water and reducing drag."

Italian inventor Enrico Forlanini began working on hydrofoils in 1898 and used a "stair" system of fins. Forlanini obtained patents in Britain and the United States for his ideas and designs.

With Number 18, for instance, Dumont conceived and tested dozens of devices and solutions; the hydroglisseur is undoubtedly a strong supporter of this argument. It was a true package of inventions, including the hydraulic system for the movement and stability of the fins, the hydrofoil to reduce water drag and achieve higher speeds, and the direction control with hydraulic pistons, among many other solutions that unfortunately got lost in time.

After Dumont's contributions, other pioneers also incorporated hydrofoils into their vessels, playing a crucial role in the evolution of this means of transportation.

Auguste Tellier founded 'Les Chantiers Tellier' in 1870, a shipyard for luxury, high-speed boats in La Rapée, Paris.

From the pioneering work of Les Chantiers Tellier to contemporary creations like modern hydrofoil racing boats, hovercraft gliding on an air cushion with rear propellers, and airboats maneuvering through the shallow waters of the Everglades, technology has evolved considerably.

The current applications of hydrofoils range from passenger transport to competition boats, highlighting the versatility and efficiency of this technology over the years.

But in the end, who broke the 100 km/h record on water?

Santos=Dumont's initiative to attempt breaking the 100 km/h record on the Seine River with Hydroglisseur #18 was notably ahead of his time, even considering his genius and the incredible 100hp Antoinette engine, the most advanced and lightweight of that period.

Don Aronow not only broke the 100 km/h record in 1967 but also created the Magnum brand, a legendary icon in the high-speed luxury boat market.

The real achievement of the challenge to reach 100 km/h on water occurred in 1967 when Don Aronow piloted his 27-foot Maltese Magnum with two MerCruiser outboard engines of 255 HP each in the Miami-Nassau Power Boat Race. He reached an incredible speed of 58.4 knots (approximately 108.15 km/h) in waves of 2 to 3 meters high, securing the record.

It's fascinating to observe Santos=Dumont's rare smile captured alongside Edna Powers in the photo of No 18. This moment speaks volumes about the unique joy Dumont found in his invention, which is my favorite, a striking testament to his passions

Don Aronow was an extraordinary figure, a master boat builder behind legendary brands like Magnum, Cigarette, and Donzi. The movie "Speed Kills" with John Travolta highlights his achievements in the world of high-speed boats, although it dramatizes some events, such as Aronow's tragic death, presented in the film with exaggerations and alterations for added drama.

The Number 18 is undoubtedly my favorite invention of Santos-Dumont, mainly because it conveys the feeling of incredible super-fast luxury boats, as well as its bold and unique design, which likely inspired George Lucas in conceiving the Naboo N-1, piloted by Anakin Skywalker in the fourth film of the franchise, "Star Wars Episode I: Phantom Menace."

Is it so?

The Santos-Dumont Hydroplaner #18 remains a symbol of its creator's ingenuity and audacity, inspiring not only aviation but also contributing to the evolution of hydroplanes and amphibious vessels. 

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As we explore the origins and speculations surrounding Number 18, we gain a deeper appreciation for the innovations that shaped the course of aeronautical and naval history.