John Harrison, clockmaker from "summary" of Longitude: The True Story of a Lone Genius Who Solved the Greatest Scientific Problem of His Time by Dava Sobel
In the world of navigation, timekeeping is paramount. John Harrison, a self-taught clockmaker from England, dedicated his life to solving the centuries-old problem of determining longitude at sea. Harrison's innovative approach involved the creation of a series of precision timepieces known as marine chronometers. These clocks were designed to keep accurate time even in the harsh conditions of the open ocean. By accurately measuring time, sailors could then calculate their longitude, allowing for more precise navigation and safer voyages. Harrison's clocks revolutionized maritime travel, making long-distance sea journeys more efficient and less perilous. Despite facing skepticism and resistance from the scientific community, Harrison persevered in his quest for a solution. He painstakingly refined his chronometers, incorporating new technologies and materials to improve their accuracy and reliability.
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