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Lord Kelvin and his compass, 1902. Artist: James Craig Annan
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Lord Kelvin and his compass, 1902. Artist: James Craig Annan
Lord Kelvin and his compass, 1902. Kelvin was born William Thomson and was educated at Glasgow and Cambridge. He was professor of Natural Philosophy (Physics) at the University of Glasgow for 53 years. Kelvin was a pioneer of thermodynamics and electromagnetic theory. He also directed work on the first transatlantic cable telegraph, which gave him considerable wealth. He was probably the first scientist to become wealthy through his work. He turned to improving his compass comparitively late in life. His compass had a very light card giving a long period of oscillation. It was mounted in a binnacle fitted with magnets and spheres and was much more accurate than previous compasses
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Media ID 14862736
© Oxford Science Archive / Heritage-Images
Compass Elderly Innovation Kelvin Lord Lord Kelvin Navigation Navigational Device Oxford Science Archive Physicist Scientist Thomson William Thomson Annan James Craig
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the renowned physicist Lord Kelvin, also known as William Thomson, alongside his revolutionary compass. Taken in 1902 by artist James Craig Annan, this image showcases Kelvin's dedication to scientific innovation. Born in Glasgow and educated at both Glasgow and Cambridge Universities, Kelvin served as a professor of Natural Philosophy (Physics) at the University of Glasgow for an impressive 53 years. He was a pioneer in the fields of thermodynamics and electromagnetic theory, making significant contributions that shaped modern physics. Kelvin's wealth came from his involvement in directing the construction of the first transatlantic cable telegraph. This groundbreaking achievement not only revolutionized communication but also brought him considerable financial success—an uncommon feat for scientists during that time. Intriguingly, it was later in life that Kelvin turned his attention towards improving compasses. His innovative design featured a lightweight card with an extended period of oscillation mounted within a binnacle fitted with magnets and spheres. This advancement greatly enhanced accuracy compared to previous models. Lord Kelvin's portrait exudes wisdom and determination—his bearded face reflecting decades spent pushing boundaries within his profession. The monochrome aesthetic adds depth to this snapshot from the early 20th century, reminding us of the remarkable achievements made by visionaries like Lord Kelvin who forever changed our understanding of science and navigation.
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