1887day.year
Herman Hollerith applies for US patent #395,781 for the 'Art of Compiling Statistics', which was his punched card calculator.
Herman Hollerith files a patent for his punched card tabulating machine, pioneering early data processing.
On June 8, 1887, American inventor Herman Hollerith applied for U.S. Patent No. 395,781, introducing the 'Art of Compiling Statistics' using punched cards. His tabulating machine mechanized the recording and sorting of data, revolutionizing how large-scale information was processed. Originally developed to expedite the 1890 U.S. census, Hollerith’s system dramatically reduced the time and labor required for demographic analysis. The innovation led to the formation of the Tabulating Machine Company, a direct predecessor of IBM. Over subsequent decades, punched card technology became integral to business operations, scientific research, and government administration. Hollerith’s work marked a foundational step in the evolution of modern computing.
1887
Herman Hollerith
patent
punched card
calculator
1959day.year
USS Barbero and the United States Postal Service attempt the delivery of mail via Missile Mail.
The USS Barbero and the USPS conduct an experimental 'Missile Mail' launch to explore high-speed postal delivery.
On June 8, 1959, the U.S. Navy submarine USS Barbero launched a Regulus cruise missile carrying mail off the coast of Jacksonville, Florida.
The 'Missile Mail' experiment aimed to test the feasibility of rapid mail delivery over long distances using rocket technology.
After traveling 100 miles, the missile safely splashed down near the Cuban shore, where postal officials retrieved the mail.
Although the concept captured public imagination, high costs and logistical challenges prevented further development.
Missile Mail remains a curious episode in postal history, reflecting mid-20th-century optimism about rocketry.
The test highlighted both the promise and practical limitations of applying military technologies to civilian services.
1959
USS Barbero
United States Postal Service
Missile Mail
2004day.year
The first Venus Transit in well over a century takes place, the previous one being in 1882.
On June 8, 2004, the first transit of Venus since 1882 occurred, as Venus passed directly between Earth and the Sun.
The transit of Venus on June 8, 2004, offered astronomers a rare opportunity to study the Solar System. Observers worldwide used telescopes and solar filters to safely witness the planet’s silhouette crossing the solar disc. This event was the first of a pair, with the next transit occurring in 2012 and the following pair not until the 22nd century. Historically, Venus transits were crucial for calculating the astronomical unit—the distance between Earth and the Sun. The 2004 transit inspired international educational programs and public viewing events. Photographers captured memorable images as Venus appeared as a tiny dark spot against the bright Sun. Many observatories reopened their doors, linking past scientific efforts to modern research and technology.
2004
Venus Transit
1882