Scientific Events
1955
- The DC 7 passenger plane is developed.
- Gregory Pincus develops the first oral contraceptive.
- Tappan manufactures the first home microwave ovens. They cost $1300, which really slows sales!
- Albert Einstein dies from internal bleeding.
Albert Einstein
1956
- The first computer hard disk is used.
- The first transatlantic phone cable is installed.
- The first nuclear power plant is built.
- Dr. Albert Sabin develops an oral polio vaccine.
Dr. Albert Sabin - The first commercial videotape recorder is introduced. The device is intended for industrial applications, and it quickly revolutionizes the way television programming is produced.
1957
- The Soviet Union launches Sputnik, the first artificial satellite.
- The Boeing 707 passenger plane is developed.
- George de Mestral of Switzerland patents Velcro.
- Eveready produces "AA" size alkaline batteries.
1958
- The first United States’ satellite, Explorer I, is launched.
- Stereophonic recordings come into use.
- Arthur Shanlow and Charles Towne patent the laser. The name is an acronym for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation.
1959
- The bathyscaphe Trieste descends seven miles into the Mariana Trench.
- The Soviet Union launches Lunik 2, which makes a hard landing on the moon.
- Joseph-Armand Bombardier of Valcourt, Quebec, Canada patents the Ski-Doo, a snowmobile.
Joseph-Armand Bombardier