July 12

On July 12, 1776, Captain James Cook departed from Plymouth aboard HMS Resolution and HMS Discovery, commencing his third voyage. His objectives included locating a Northwest Passage and exploring the Pacific’s northern regions. The expedition carried scientists and artists tasked with mapping coastlines, observing phenomena, and collecting specimens. Cook’s crew charted parts of the Hawaiian Islands and the Pacific Northwest before his eventual death in Hawaii. This voyage significantly advanced European understanding of Pacific geography and indigenous cultures.

On July 12, 1995, Chinese seismologists achieved a breakthrough by accurately predicting a major earthquake along the Myanmar–China border. Their forecasts were based on meticulous analysis of foreshocks and ground deformation data. Authorities evacuated thousands of residents from vulnerable villages ahead of the shock. When the magnitude 7.3 quake struck, the death toll was limited to just 11 people. This outcome marked a significant improvement in disaster prevention compared to previous events in the region. The success underscored the value of early warning efforts and advanced seismological research.

On July 12, 2001, NASA launched Space Shuttle Atlantis on mission STS-104. The shuttle delivered the Quest Joint Airlock, the first habitable airlock for the International Space Station. This module enabled astronauts to perform spacewalks from the station itself for the first time. The mission lasted 13 days and marked a key step in assembling the ISS. Atlantis docked with the station and astronauts installed the airlock over two spacewalks. This mission contributed significantly to the station's expansion and long-term habitation capabilities.