1878day.year
Thomas Edison patents the phonograph.
Thomas Edison was granted a patent for the phonograph, revolutionizing the field of sound recording.
On February 19, 1878, Thomas Edison secured U.S. Patent No. 200,521 for his invention of the phonograph. This groundbreaking device could record and reproduce sound on tin foil cylinders. Edison’s phonograph combined a stylus, diaphragm, and rotating cylinder to capture audio vibrations. It represented the first practical method of recording live sound. The invention captured public imagination and laid the foundation for the modern music industry. Edison continued to refine the technology, leading to widespread adoption of sound recording and playback.
1878
Thomas Edison
phonograph
1960day.year
China successfully launches the T-7, its first sounding rocket.
China launches the T-7 sounding rocket, marking its entry into atmospheric research.
On February 19, 1960, the People's Republic of China successfully launched the T-7, its first domestically developed sounding rocket. The launch from the Nanhui site near Shanghai reached an altitude of approximately eight kilometers. The mission aimed to collect meteorological and upper-atmospheric data crucial for future space endeavors. Technical achievements included mastering solid-fuel rocketry and guidance systems. The success boosted national pride and demonstrated China’s growing scientific capabilities during the Cold War. It laid the groundwork for the development of the Chang series rockets and eventual human spaceflight ambitions. The T-7 launch represented a decisive step in China’s long-term space exploration strategy.
1960
T-7
sounding rocket
1985day.year
William J. Schroeder becomes the first recipient of an artificial heart to leave the hospital.
In 1985, William J. Schroeder became the first artificial heart recipient to be discharged from the hospital, marking a milestone in cardiac medicine.
William J. Schroeder received the Jarvik-7 artificial heart in late 1984 after suffering from end-stage heart failure. On February 19, 1985, he made medical history by becoming the first patient with an artificial heart to leave the hospital. His return to a semi-normal life demonstrated the potential of mechanical circulatory support. Although Schroeder's survival was limited, his discharge highlighted advances in biomedical engineering and patient care. The event spurred further research into implantable devices and heart transplantation. It remains a significant chapter in the pursuit of artificial organ solutions.
1985
William J. Schroeder
artificial heart
2002day.year
NASA's Mars Odyssey space probe begins to map the surface of Mars using its thermal emission imaging system.
In 2002, NASA’s Mars Odyssey spacecraft began mapping the Martian surface using its thermal emission imaging system.
Launched in April 2001, Mars Odyssey entered Martian orbit and prepared for science operations. On February 19, 2002, its Thermal Emission Imaging System (THEMIS) started mapping the planet’s surface temperature and mineral composition. The instrument provided high-resolution data that revealed evidence of past water activity and helped identify landing sites for future missions. Mars Odyssey also served as a communications relay for rover and lander operations. Its long operational life vastly exceeded initial expectations, returning vital data for over a decade. The mission significantly advanced our understanding of Mars’ geology and climate history.
2002
NASA
Mars Odyssey
space probe
Mars