How the Laser Happened

By Charles H. Townes

Book Overview

Charles Townes is one of the leading figures in twentieth-century physics, inventor of the maser and the laser, and one of the pioneers in the use of spectroscopic techniques to determine the atomic composition of stars. This book is the memoir of a life devoted to scientific research, and also to the application of this research in the public sphere. A Nobel laureate, Townes was also the first scientist to accept a full-time position advising the Executive Branch, and later was a founder of the Jasons, a very influential group of scientists independently advising the U.S. government on defense matters. He also served on the board of General Motors. The book describes the history of the maser, of which the laser is a special application, and also sheds light on the complex relationship between science and policy from Truman to Reagan. Townes is a revered figure, with a powerful personal magnetism, and his book should attract attention from physicists and engineers as well as anyone interested in the history of modern technology and the development of federal defense policies.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0195122682
• ISBN13: 9780195122688
• Release Date: April 1999
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Length: 208 Pages
• Weight: 1.06 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 6.3" x 9.6"

Customer Reviews

A great read!

This book describes the history of the laser and how it was invented (and how it was almost NOT invented). The author was ridiculed by the scientific authorities of the day for daring to suggest that such a device was possible, and for wasting time on its development. Thank goodness he forged ahead and ignored the advice (and threats) from the scientific "experts" of the day. A great read!

From a fellow Paladin

This relatively short book is filled with interesting stories, people and events--not all of which are about physics or science. In fact, this is an enjoyable book for even the most determined liberal arts type who normally might avoid reading about physics. In fact, Dr. Townes seems to approach science and life with a "liberal arts" attitude: curious about everything and more than a little adventurous. He challenges readers to look under all the rocks for the excitement and learning to be found there. Read it for enjoyment and edification (a rare combination these days).