What was the main goal of the Wright Brothers in their aviation experiments?

The main goal of the Wright Brothers in their aviation experiments was to achieve controlled powered flight. This objective was driven by their desire to solve the challenges of maintaining control in the air while being able to generate sufficient lift and thrust through a powered engine. Their rigorous scientific approach included extensive experimentation with gliders and wind tunnel testing, allowing them to understand the principles of aerodynamics like lift, drag, and thrust.

The successful flight on December 17, 1903, marked a significant breakthrough in aviation history, as it demonstrated that it was possible to fly a heavier-than-air machine powered by an engine. This accomplishment laid the groundwork not only for the future of aviation technology but also set the stage for further developments in various fields including engineering and transportation.

Ultimately, while aspects like commercial airlines and military aircraft became important later on, the primary focus of the Wright Brothers was to accomplish the fundamental breakthrough of controlled powered flight.