Longitude
Subtitle: the true story of a lone genius who solved the greatest scientific problem of his time
By: Dava Sobel.
Publisher: Walker
Published: 1995
Place of publication: New York
Language: eng
Number of pages: 184
Subjects: Harrison, John, 1693-1776; Longitude -- Measurement -- History; Chronometers -- History; Clock and watch makers -- Great Britain -- Biography
Description: Longitude is the dramatic human story of an epic scientific quest, and of John Harrison's forty-year obsession with building his perfect timekeeper, known today as the chronometer. Full of heroism and chicanery, brilliance and the absurd, it is also a fascinating brief history of astronomy, navigation, and clockmaking. Through Dava Sobel's consummate skill, Longitude will open a new window on our world for all who read it.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p. 177-180) and index.