In How the Laser Happened , Nobel laureate Charles Townes provides a highly personal look at some of the leading events in twentieth-century physics. Townes was inventor of the maser, of which the laser is one example; an originator of spectroscopy using microwaves; and a pioneer in the study of gas clouds in galaxies and around stars. Throughout his career he has also been deeply engaged with issues outside of academic research. He worked on applied research projects for Bell Labs; served on the board of directors for ...
Read More
In How the Laser Happened , Nobel laureate Charles Townes provides a highly personal look at some of the leading events in twentieth-century physics. Townes was inventor of the maser, of which the laser is one example; an originator of spectroscopy using microwaves; and a pioneer in the study of gas clouds in galaxies and around stars. Throughout his career he has also been deeply engaged with issues outside of academic research. He worked on applied research projects for Bell Labs; served on the board of directors for General Motors; and devoted extensive effort to advising the government on science, policy, and defense. This memoir traces his multifaceted career from its beginnings on the family farm in South Carolina. Spanning decades of ground-breaking research, the book provides a hands-on description of how working scientists and inventors get their ideas. It also gives a behind-the-scenes look at the scientific community, showing how scientists respond to new ideas and how they approach a variety of issues, from priority and patents to the social and political implications of their work. In addition, Townes touches on the sociology of science, uncovering some of the traditions and values that are invisible to an outsider. A towering and energetic figure, Townes has explored or pioneered most of the roles available to the modern scientist. In addition to fundamental research, he was actively involved in the practical uses of the laser and in the court cases to defend the patent rights. He was a founding member of the Jasons, an influential group of scientists that independently advises the government on defense policy, and he played an active part in scientific decisions and policies from the Truman through the Reagan administration. This lively memoir, packed with first-hand accounts and historical anecdotes, is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the history of science and an inspiring example for students considering scientific careers.
Read Less
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Good. 2-6 average business day shipping. 97 % + We ship same or next business day. Shipping transit days depend on distance from our California location & pse keep track of bad weather, can cause delays. We use an expeditor as well as direct drops at US Postal Service twice daily Pacific Time. End delivery is always US Postal Service. Customer service in the California / United States Only, Pacific Time M-F. PLEASE READ CONDITION NOTES: Every copy graded & checked, we always downgrade. Functional copy for everyday use. Tight binding, no food or drink stains, no tobacco smell. May have written notes, highlighting that do not obscure text, reading or use. May have overstock mark on spine. Never former libris. May or may not have dust cover and please check condition, we are happy to check for you. DJ's may MISSING have small nicks and tears, or taped and intact. Any lower condition we downgrade to acceptable. Please message any questions.
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Good. In stock now/ready to ship, often ships same day! Clean copy in good++ condition, dust jacket is glossy and whole, binding is tight but not quite square, text is clean and unmarked, light+ tanning throughout, HARDCOVER edition of "How The Laser Happened" exactly as shown, ships quickly/securely with delivery confirmation, thanks! 201.
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Ex Library Book with usual stamps and stickers. The free end page has been removed. Good condition is defined as: a copy that has been read but remains in clean condition. All of the pages are intact and the cover is intact and the spine may show signs of wear. The book may have minor markings which are not specifically mentioned. Most items will be dispatched the same or the next working day.
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Fine in very good dust jacket. The dustjacket is in Very Good+ condition. Sewn binding. Cloth over boards. 208 p. Contains: Illustrations, black & white. Audience: General/trade.