The Wright brothers began systematic wind-tunnel experiments in 1901.
After disappointing results with their 1900 and 1901 gliders, the brothers built a small wind tunnel in Dayton. They tested more than 200 miniature wing designs and measured lift and drag using instruments they constructed themselves. The results challenged published aerodynamic data that they had been relying on.
The wind-tunnel work helped the brothers correct the shape of their airfoils and improve their understanding of lift. Their 1902 glider, developed after this research, performed far better than their earlier machines and demonstrated reliable three-axis control.
The 1901 wind tunnel should not be confused with the brothers’ later powered-flight tests. It was a laboratory device for aerodynamic research, while the 1903 Flyer was the powered aircraft that applied the resulting knowledge.