Aeronautics refers to the science and technology of flight within Earth's atmosphere. It involves the design, production and operation of aircraft and rockets. Early attempts at human flight involved studying bird flight. Notable pioneers included Leonardo da Vinci, who designed early aircraft based on bird anatomy, and George Cayley, who is credited with establishing the science of aeronautics. Aeronautics progressed with the development of lightweight engines capable of propelling flying machines that were heavier than air.