A Short Bright Flash

Augustin Fresnel and the Birth of the Modern Lighthouse

Theresa Levitt

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Paperback

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English

Norton
13 February 2015

European history; Modern history to 20th century: c 1700 to c 1900; Mathematics & Sciences; Navigation & seamanship; Applied optics

Augustin Fresnel (1788?1827) shocked the scientific elite with his view of the physics of light. The lens he invented was a feat of engineering that made lighthouses blaze many times brighter, further and more efficiently than they had before. As secretary of France's Lighthouse Commission, he planned and oversaw the lighting of the nation's coast. Although Fresnel died young, his brother L?onor presided over the spread of the new technology around the globe. The new lights were of strategic importance in navigation and the Fresnel legacy played an important role in geopolitical events. Levitt's scientific and historical account, rich in anecdote and personality, is a compelling read.

By: Theresa Levitt
Imprint: Norton
Country of Publication: United States
Dimensions: Height: 211mm, Width: 140mm, Spine: 18mm
Weight: 223g
ISBN: 9780393350890
ISBN 10: 0393350894
Pages: 288
Publication Date: 13 February 2015
Audience: Professional and scholarly , Undergraduate
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active

Reviews for A Short Bright Flash: Augustin Fresnel and the Birth of the Modern Lighthouse

"""Levitt's detailed history is worth ploughing through to see how important scientists and engineers have been in saving sailors' lives."" -- Nature ""An excellent book and a joy to read."" -- The Wall Street Journal ""...this books is expertly researched as well as skillfully written...a thoroughly enjoyable read..."" -- World Lighthouse Society ""A splendid read."" -- The Tablet"