Key Dates
Tim Berners-Lee invents modern internet at CERN in Geneva
In 1989, Tim Berners-Lee, a British scientist at CERN in Geneva, invented the World Wide Web, fundamentally transforming the modern Internet. Berners-Lee’s creation introduced a system of interlinked hypertext documents accessed via the Internet, allowing users to navigate through information with ease using web browsers. This innovation included the development of key technologies such as…
Read MoreOSCAR 1, first orbital amateur radio satellite launched
On December 12, 1961, the first orbital amateur radio satellite, OSCAR 1 (Orbital Satellite Carrying Amateur Radio), was launched. Developed by Project OSCAR, a group of California-based radio amateurs, the satellite was carried into orbit as a secondary payload aboard a Thor-Agena rocket. OSCAR 1 transmitted a simple beacon signal on the 144 MHz amateur…
Read MoreAtalla and Kahng invent MOSFET
In 1959, Mohamed Atalla and Dawon Kahng at Bell Labs invented the Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor (MOSFET). This groundbreaking development revolutionized the field of electronics by providing a highly efficient, scalable, and cost-effective transistor technology. The MOSFET’s ability to operate at high speeds with low power consumption made it a fundamental component in modern electronics, including…
Read MoreSputnik
On October 4, 1957, the Soviet Union launched Sputnik 1, the world’s first artificial satellite, into orbit. This historic event marked the beginning of the space age and significantly impacted global communications and scientific research. Sputnik 1’s launch demonstrated the feasibility of space-based communication, inspiring advancements in satellite technology. For amateur radio operators, Sputnik’s beeping…
Read MoreYaesu founded
Yaesu, a well-known manufacturer of amateur radio equipment, was founded in 1956 by Sako Hasegawa in Tokyo, Japan. The company quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality, reliable radios and transceivers for amateur radio enthusiasts. Yaesu’s innovative designs and advanced technology have made it a favorite among hams worldwide. Over the years, Yaesu has introduced…
Read MoreFirst Heathkit
In 1956, Heathkit introduced its first amateur radio kit, the Heathkit DX-100. This transmitter kit marked the beginning of Heathkit’s significant impact on the amateur radio community. Known for their affordable, high-quality electronic kits, Heathkit allowed amateur radio operators to build their own equipment, enhancing their technical skills and understanding of radio technology. The DX-100,…
Read MoreICOM founded
In 1954, Icom Incorporated was founded in Osaka, Japan, by Tokuzo Inoue. Initially named Inoue Communications, the company began as a manufacturer of radio equipment and quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality, innovative communication devices. Icom has since become a leading brand in the amateur radio industry, known for its wide range of transceivers,…
Read MoreW4AO and W3GKP hear echoes of their own 2-meter signal reflected from the Moon
In 1953, Ross Bateman, W4AO, and Bill Smith, W3GKP, achieved a significant milestone in amateur radio by successfully hearing the echoes of their own 2-meter signal reflected from the Moon. Operating from a station in Virginia, they conducted this groundbreaking experiment, demonstrating the feasibility of Earth-Moon-Earth (EME) or “moonbounce” communication. This achievement marked the first…
Read MorePhilco develops first high-frequency transistor
In 1953, Philco Corporation developed the first high-frequency transistor, known as the surface-barrier transistor. This innovation was a significant advancement in transistor technology, as it allowed for operation at much higher frequencies than previously possible. The surface-barrier transistor, designed by Herbert Mataré and Heinrich Welker, utilized a thin, precise barrier layer to achieve higher speed…
Read MoreFirst Hamvention in Dayton
The first Hamvention in Dayton, Ohio, was held in 1952. Organized by the Dayton Amateur Radio Association (DARA), Hamvention quickly grew to become the world’s largest annual gathering of amateur radio enthusiasts. The event features a wide range of activities, including forums, exhibits, flea markets, and presentations on the latest in amateur radio technology and…
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