Science History - Daily

This Day in History - Science is an podcast that attempts to explores the remarkable moments that shaped the scientific landscape. Each episode, we journey back in time to rediscover groundbreaking discoveries, pivotal inventions, and the fascinating individuals who dared to push the boundaries of knowledge. From the invention of the light bulb to the discovery of DNA, we delve into the stories behind the science that changed our world.Listen to This Day in History - Science to: Learn about the most important scientific discoveries of all timeMeet the brilliant minds who made them possibleUnderstand how science has shaped our worldBe inspired to explore your own curiosity about scienceThis Day in History - Science is a great podcast for anyone who is interested in science, history, or just wants to learn something new.  Subscribe to This Day in History - Science on your favorite podcast app today! historydiscoveryinventioninnovationtechnologymedicinespaceexplorationeducationlearning

  1. 1H AGO

    Beyond Earth: The Day We Found Our First Exoplanet

    On December 13th in science history, one of the most significant events was the discovery of the first extrasolar planet, also known as an exoplanet, orbiting a main-sequence star. This groundbreaking discovery was made in 1995 by Swiss astronomers Michel Mayor and Didier Queloz, who detected the planet orbiting the star 51 Pegasi using the Doppler spectroscopy technique. The planet, named 51 Pegasi b, is a gas giant about half the mass of Jupiter and orbits its star at a distance of only 7.5 million kilometers (4.7 million miles), which is much closer than Mercury is to our Sun. This proximity to its star results in an estimated surface temperature of around 1,000°C (1,832°F), making it an extremely hot Jupiter-type planet. The discovery of 51 Pegasi b challenged the prevailing theories of planet formation at the time, as it was thought that gas giants could only form at much greater distances from their host stars, similar to the gas giants in our solar system. This finding led to a paradigm shift in the understanding of planetary systems and sparked a renewed interest in the search for exoplanets. It also led to the realization that planetary systems come in various configurations, some of which are vastly different from our own solar system. Mayor and Queloz's discovery earned them a share of the 2019 Nobel Prize in Physics, which they received "for the discovery of an exoplanet orbiting a solar-type star." Their work paved the way for the detection of thousands of exoplanets in the following years, revolutionizing our understanding of the universe and the potential for life beyond Earth. Today, the study of exoplanets is a thriving field in astronomy, with new discoveries being made regularly thanks to advanced telescopes and detection methods. The discovery of 51 Pegasi b on December 13th, 1995, will always be remembered as a crucial turning point in the history of science, marking the beginning of a new era in the exploration of the cosmos and the search for potentially habitable worlds beyond our own. Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3Qs For more check out http://www.quietplease.ai This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

    3 min
  2. 1D AGO

    Marconi's Atlantic Leap: First Radio Signal Crosses Ocean

    On December 12th in science history, one significant event took place in 1901. On this day, Italian physicist and radio pioneer Guglielmo Marconi successfully transmitted the first transatlantic radio signal, marking a milestone in the history of long-distance communication. Marconi had been working on the development of wireless telegraphy for several years, and had already achieved successful transmissions over shorter distances. However, the idea of sending a radio signal across the Atlantic Ocean was considered impossible by many scientists at the time, who believed that the curvature of the Earth would prevent the signals from reaching their destination. Undeterred, Marconi set up a transmitting station in Poldhu, Cornwall, England, and a receiving station in St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada. The transmitting station was equipped with a powerful spark-gap transmitter, which generated radio waves by creating sparks across a gap between two electrodes. The receiving station, on the other hand, was equipped with a sensitive coherer, a device that could detect radio waves and convert them into electrical signals. On December 12th, 1901, Marconi and his team began transmitting the Morse code letter "S" (three dots) from the Poldhu station. The signal traveled more than 2,000 miles across the Atlantic, and was successfully received by the team in Newfoundland. This achievement stunned the scientific community and opened up new possibilities for global communication. Marconi's transatlantic transmission relied on a combination of scientific principles and technological innovations. He had developed a way to generate powerful radio waves using a spark-gap transmitter, and had also created a sensitive receiver that could detect these waves even at great distances. Additionally, Marconi had discovered that radio waves could be transmitted more effectively by using longer wavelengths, which could travel farther and penetrate obstacles more easily. The success of Marconi's experiment had far-reaching consequences for the world. It demonstrated that wireless communication was possible over long distances, and paved the way for the development of radio broadcasting, two-way radio communication, and eventually, modern wireless technologies such as cell phones and Wi-Fi. Marconi's achievement also had a profound impact on society and culture. The ability to communicate instantly across vast distances transformed the way people lived and worked, and had a significant impact on politics, commerce, and entertainment. Radio became a powerful tool for propaganda and mass communication, and played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and cultural attitudes throughout the 20th century. Today, Marconi is remembered as one of the pioneers of wireless communication, and his legacy continues to inspire scientists and engineers around the world. The transatlantic radio transmission of December 12th, 1901, remains one of the most significant moments in the history of science and technology, and a testament to the power of human ingenuity and perseverance. Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3Qs For more check out http://www.quietplease.ai This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

    4 min
  3. 2D AGO

    Apollo 17: Humanity's Last Lunar Footprints

    On December 11th in science history, one significant event took place in 1972 when NASA's Apollo 17 mission landed on the Moon. This mission, which was the final Apollo mission, set several records and achieved numerous scientific milestones. Apollo 17 was crewed by Commander Eugene Cernan, Lunar Module Pilot Harrison "Jack" Schmitt, and Command Module Pilot Ronald Evans. What made this mission particularly special was the fact that Harrison Schmitt was a professional geologist, making him the first scientist-astronaut to land on the Moon. The mission launched from the Kennedy Space Center on December 7, 1972, and after orbiting the Earth and traveling to the Moon, the lunar module "Challenger" landed in the Taurus-Littrow valley on December 11. This location was chosen because it was thought to have unique geological features that could provide valuable scientific insights. During their time on the lunar surface, Cernan and Schmitt conducted three moonwalks, or EVAs (extravehicular activities), lasting a total of 22 hours and 4 minutes. This set a record for the longest total moonwalks during a single mission, which still stands today. The astronauts collected a wealth of scientific data and samples, including 110.4 kilograms (243.5 pounds) of lunar rocks and soil. These samples have provided researchers with invaluable information about the Moon's geological history and have helped to shape our understanding of the Solar System's formation. One of the most famous moments from the Apollo 17 mission occurred during the second EVA when Cernan and Schmitt conducted a geological traverse using the Lunar Roving Vehicle (LRV). During this traverse, they discovered an unusual rock that they nicknamed "Tracy's Rock" after Cernan's daughter. This rock, which was later identified as a type of igneous rock called troctolite, has provided important insights into the Moon's volcanic history. Another notable achievement of the Apollo 17 mission was the use of the Lunar Surface Gravimeter, an experiment designed to measure the Moon's gravitational field and tidal forces. This instrument provided the first direct evidence of the existence of mascons, or mass concentrations, beneath the lunar surface. After completing their lunar surface operations, Cernan and Schmitt returned to the lunar module and blasted off to rejoin Evans in lunar orbit. The three astronauts then began their journey back to Earth, splashing down in the Pacific Ocean on December 19, 1972. The Apollo 17 mission was a fitting end to the Apollo program, which had achieved its goal of landing humans on the Moon and returning them safely to Earth. The scientific legacy of this mission, and of the Apollo program as a whole, continues to shape our understanding of the Moon and the Solar System to this day. As a final note, just before climbing back into the lunar module for the last time, Gene Cernan delivered these parting words: "As we leave the Moon at Taurus-Littrow, we leave as we came, and God willing, as we shall return, with peace and hope for all mankind." These words serve as a reminder of the incredible achievements of the Apollo program and the spirit of exploration that continues to drive us to reach for the stars. Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3Qs For more check out http://www.quietplease.ai This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

    4 min
  4. 3D AGO

    Einstein's Nobel: When Physics Changed Forever

    On December 10th in science history, one of the most significant events was the awarding of the Nobel Prize in Physics to Albert Einstein in 1922. This prestigious award recognized Einstein's groundbreaking contributions to the field of physics, particularly his theory of relativity. Einstein's theory of relativity revolutionized our understanding of space, time, and gravity. It consists of two parts: the special theory of relativity, published in 1905, and the general theory of relativity, published in 1915. The special theory of relativity introduced the concept that time and space are intertwined and that the speed of light is constant regardless of the motion of the observer. This theory also led to the famous equation E=mc², which expresses the relationship between energy and mass. The general theory of relativity, on the other hand, dealt with gravity and its effect on space-time. Einstein proposed that massive objects cause a curvature in space-time, which is felt as the force of gravity. This theory provided a new framework for understanding the universe and made several predictions, such as the bending of starlight by the sun's gravity and the existence of black holes. Einstein's theories have been extensively tested and have held up to rigorous scientific scrutiny. The general theory of relativity, in particular, has been confirmed through observations such as the precession of Mercury's orbit, the bending of starlight during a solar eclipse, and the detection of gravitational waves. The Nobel Prize in Physics in 1922 was awarded to Einstein "for his services to Theoretical Physics, and especially for his discovery of the law of the photoelectric effect." While the photoelectric effect was an important discovery, it was his theory of relativity that truly cemented Einstein's place in scientific history. Einstein's work not only transformed the field of physics but also had a profound impact on philosophy, technology, and popular culture. His theories laid the foundation for modern physics and continue to inspire and guide scientists today in their quest to understand the fundamental workings of the universe. The awarding of the Nobel Prize to Albert Einstein on December 10, 1922, was a recognition of his unparalleled contributions to science. It celebrated a scientist whose ideas challenged conventional thinking and opened up new avenues of scientific inquiry. Einstein's legacy continues to shine brightly nearly a century later, reminding us of the power of scientific curiosity and the enduring impact of groundbreaking discoveries. Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3Qs For more check out http://www.quietplease.ai This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

    3 min
  5. 4D AGO

    The Mouse that Roared: Engelbart's Computing Revolution

    On December 9th in science history, one significant event took place in 1968 when Douglas Engelbart, an American engineer and inventor, gave a groundbreaking demonstration at the Fall Joint Computer Conference in San Francisco. This event, later known as "The Mother of All Demos," introduced several revolutionary concepts and technologies that would shape the future of computing. During the 90-minute presentation, Engelbart showcased the oN-Line System (NLS), a pioneering computer collaboration system developed by his team at the Stanford Research Institute (SRI). The NLS featured a number of innovative ideas and tools that had never been seen before, many of which are still in use today. One of the most notable innovations demonstrated was the computer mouse. Engelbart's team had developed the first prototype of the mouse, which was a wooden shell with two metal wheels. This device allowed users to navigate and interact with the computer's graphical user interface more intuitively than ever before. Today, the mouse is an essential input device for computers worldwide. In addition to the mouse, Engelbart's presentation introduced several other groundbreaking concepts, including hypertext, object addressing, dynamic file linking, and collaborative real-time editing. He demonstrated how multiple users could work together on the same document simultaneously from different locations, a concept that laid the foundation for modern collaborative software tools. The NLS also featured a graphical user interface (GUI) with windows, icons, and menus, which was a significant departure from the text-based interfaces of the time. This GUI design would later inspire the development of modern operating systems like Apple's macOS and Microsoft Windows. Engelbart's demonstration showcased the potential of computers as tools for enhancing human intellect and collaboration. His vision of using computers to augment human capabilities, rather than just as calculators or data processors, was truly ahead of its time. The impact of "The Mother of All Demos" on the field of computer science cannot be overstated. Many of the concepts and technologies introduced during the presentation laid the groundwork for the development of personal computers, the Internet, and the modern digital age as we know it today. In recognition of his pioneering work, Douglas Engelbart received numerous awards and accolades, including the National Medal of Technology and Innovation, the Turing Award, and the Lemelson-MIT Prize. His legacy continues to inspire generations of computer scientists and innovators who strive to push the boundaries of what is possible with technology. Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3Qs For more check out http://www.quietplease.ai This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

    3 min
  6. 5D AGO

    Röntgen's X-Ray Revolution: Seeing Through History

    On December 8th in science history, one of the most significant events was the discovery of X-rays by German physicist Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen in 1895. This groundbreaking discovery revolutionized the field of medicine and earned Röntgen the first Nobel Prize in Physics in 1901. Röntgen was conducting experiments with cathode ray tubes, which were glass tubes containing electrodes that could produce a beam of electrons when a high voltage was applied. While working in his lab at the University of Würzburg, he noticed that a fluorescent screen placed near the tube would glow even when the tube was covered with heavy black cardboard. This observation led him to investigate the mysterious rays that could penetrate opaque materials. He named these unknown rays "X-rays" due to their enigmatic nature and began studying their properties. Röntgen discovered that X-rays could pass through various materials, including human tissue, but were absorbed differently depending on the density of the material. This led him to create the first X-ray images, including a famous photograph of his wife's hand, which clearly showed her bones and wedding ring. News of Röntgen's discovery spread quickly, and scientists around the world began replicating his experiments. The medical community immediately recognized the potential of X-rays in diagnosing and treating injuries and diseases. Within a year, X-rays were being used in hospitals and clinics to locate fractures, foreign objects, and even tumors inside the human body. However, the widespread use of X-rays also led to some tragic consequences. In the early days, the harmful effects of radiation exposure were not well understood, and many pioneers in the field, including Röntgen himself, suffered from radiation-related illnesses later in life. Despite these challenges, the discovery of X-rays marked a turning point in the history of medicine and paved the way for numerous advancements in diagnostic imaging. Today, X-rays are an essential tool in healthcare, used in a wide range of applications from dental exams to airport security screenings. Röntgen's curiosity, persistence, and careful observation led to one of the most important scientific breakthroughs of the 19th century. His legacy continues to inspire scientists and medical professionals to this day, reminding us of the incredible power of scientific inquiry to change the world. Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3Qs For more check out http://www.quietplease.ai This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

    3 min
  7. 6D AGO

    Apollo 17: Humanity's Final Footprints on the Moon

    On December 7th in science history, one significant event took place in 1972 when NASA launched the Apollo 17 mission, which would be the last manned mission to the Moon of the 20th century. Apollo 17 was a 12-day mission that aimed to explore the Taurus-Littrow valley on the lunar surface, a site chosen for its unique geological features. The mission was crewed by Commander Eugene Cernan, Lunar Module Pilot Harrison Schmitt, and Command Module Pilot Ronald Evans. What made Apollo 17 particularly special was the fact that Harrison Schmitt was a professional geologist, making him the first scientist-astronaut to land on the Moon. His expertise proved invaluable during the mission's three moonwalks, where he and Cernan collected a record-breaking 110 kilograms (243 pounds) of lunar samples, including a deep-drill core sample that provided insights into the Moon's geological history. During their time on the lunar surface, the astronauts conducted numerous scientific experiments, including the use of a Lunar Roving Vehicle (LRV) to explore the surrounding area. The LRV allowed them to cover a greater distance than any previous Apollo mission, ultimately traveling a total of 35.9 kilometers (22.3 miles) across the Moon's surface. One of the most iconic moments of the Apollo 17 mission occurred when Cernan and Schmitt unveiled a plaque on the lunar module that read, "Here Man completed his first explorations of the Moon, December 1972, AD. May the spirit of peace in which we came be reflected in the lives of all mankind." This plaque served as a reminder of the monumental achievements of the Apollo program and the spirit of exploration that drove humanity to reach for the stars. As the mission drew to a close, Cernan became the last person to walk on the Moon, a distinction he held until his passing in 2017. His final words on the lunar surface were, "We leave as we came and, God willing, as we shall return: with peace and hope for all mankind." Apollo 17 marked the end of an era for NASA's lunar exploration efforts, but it also represented a significant milestone in our understanding of the Moon and its geological history. The mission's success demonstrated the value of having a scientist-astronaut on board and paved the way for future space missions that would prioritize scientific research and discovery. Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3Qs For more check out http://www.quietplease.ai This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

    3 min
  8. DEC 6

    Edison's Voice Revolution: The Birth of Recorded Sound

    On December 6th in science history, one significant event occurred in 1877 when Thomas Edison demonstrated the first phonograph, a device that could record and play back sound. This groundbreaking invention revolutionized the way people experienced music and other audio recordings. Edison had been working on the phonograph for several years, experimenting with various materials and designs. The final version of the device consisted of a rotating cylinder wrapped in tinfoil, with a stylus (needle) attached to a diaphragm. When someone spoke into the mouthpiece, the sound vibrations caused the diaphragm and stylus to vibrate, creating indentations on the tinfoil. To play back the recording, the process was reversed, with the stylus tracing the indentations and causing the diaphragm to vibrate, reproducing the original sound. On that historic day in 1877, Edison gathered his team and several witnesses in his Menlo Park laboratory to demonstrate the phonograph. He recited the nursery rhyme "Mary Had a Little Lamb" into the mouthpiece, and to everyone's amazement, the device played back his voice. The witnesses were astounded by the clarity and fidelity of the recording, which marked a significant milestone in the history of audio technology. News of Edison's invention spread quickly, and the phonograph became a sensation. People marveled at the idea of capturing and preserving sound, and many saw the potential for the device to be used in various applications, such as dictation, education, and entertainment. Edison himself foresaw the phonograph's impact, famously remarking, "I don't think there is any limit to its application." However, the early phonograph had its limitations. The tinfoil recordings could only be played back a few times before the indentations wore out, and the sound quality was not always consistent. Over the years, improvements were made to the phonograph, including the use of wax cylinders and, eventually, flat discs (records) made of shellac and vinyl. Despite these advancements, Edison's original phonograph remains a testament to his ingenuity and its impact on the world of audio. It paved the way for the development of more sophisticated recording and playback devices, from gramophones to modern digital audio formats. Today, we can trace the origins of our ability to enjoy music and other audio recordings back to that remarkable December day in 1877 when Thomas Edison first demonstrated his phonograph to the world. Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3Qs For more check out http://www.quietplease.ai This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

    3 min

Ratings & Reviews

2
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

This Day in History - Science is an podcast that attempts to explores the remarkable moments that shaped the scientific landscape. Each episode, we journey back in time to rediscover groundbreaking discoveries, pivotal inventions, and the fascinating individuals who dared to push the boundaries of knowledge. From the invention of the light bulb to the discovery of DNA, we delve into the stories behind the science that changed our world.Listen to This Day in History - Science to: Learn about the most important scientific discoveries of all timeMeet the brilliant minds who made them possibleUnderstand how science has shaped our worldBe inspired to explore your own curiosity about scienceThis Day in History - Science is a great podcast for anyone who is interested in science, history, or just wants to learn something new.  Subscribe to This Day in History - Science on your favorite podcast app today! historydiscoveryinventioninnovationtechnologymedicinespaceexplorationeducationlearning

More From This Day in History

You Might Also Like