This edition of Time Capsule explores remarkable moments—from the invention of stainless steel and the discovery of helium to milestones in medicine, computing, and space science.
Time Capsule: August 2025
Throughout history, August has witnessed scientific milestones that have changed the world. From atomic discoveries to life-saving medical insights, historic events in August highlight how curiosity and determination shape human progress. This Time Capsule August section does more than simply list dates — it narrates the scientific events that happened in August. Whether you’re a student revising for exams or simply exploring scientific achievements, these moments stand as lasting reminders of what science makes possible.
August 1, 1774
On August 1, 1774, British scientist Joseph Priestley made oxygen. He used a magnifying glass to focus sunlight on mercuric oxide. This released a gas. Priestley called it “dephlogisticated air.” Candles burned brighter in this gas. Additionally, mice lived longer when exposed to it. Thus, this was an early step in learning how air supports life.
August 2, 1932
Discovery of the Positron
Physicist Carl D. Anderson found the positron. It is also called the anti-electron. He saw it while studying cosmic rays in a cloud chamber. It looked like an electron but had a positive charge.
This proved that antimatter is real. Earlier, this was predicted by Paul Dirac in 1928.
The positron’s discovery was a key moment in particle physics. Anderson won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1936. Today, positrons are widely used in medical imaging techniques like PET scans.
August 6 & 9, 1945
Atomic Bombs Dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki
During World War II, the U.S. dropped an atomic bomb called “Little Boy” on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. Three days later, on August 9, another bomb called “Fat Man” was dropped on Nagasaki.
Hence, these two bombings made Japan surrender. Finally, this ended the Second World War.
This was the first time nuclear weapons were used in war. The technology came from the Manhattan Project. It was a secret project. Many scientists worked on it, including J. Robert Oppenheimer. The results changed world politics. It also raised new questions in science. This changed how we use nuclear energy.
Thus, this is one of the major historic events in August.
August 12, 1981
IBM Launches its First Personal Computer
IBM launched its first personal computer (IBM 5150) on August 12, 1981. This made computing technology more accessible. It started the personal computing era. This changed how people and businesses worked and communicated.
The IBM PC became a popular and important machine. It sets rules for hardware and software to work together. Tech companies still follow these rules today.
August 12, 1851
Isaac Singer Patents an Improved Sewing Machine
American inventor Isaac Merritt Singer got a patent on August 12, 1851. It was for a new sewing machine design. This machine had a straight needle and a foot pedal. It was faster and easier to use than older versions.
Sewing became easier and faster. People used it more in factories and homes. As a result, it helped the textile industry grow. It also supported modern manufacturing.
August 13, 1913
Stainless Steel Invented by Harry Brearley
In 1913, Harry Brearley was trying to make gun barrels that wouldn’t wear out. He was working with different kinds of steel. On August 13, he found a steel alloy with 12.8% chromium that did not rust.
The chromium formed a layer on the surface. This layer protected the metal from corrosion.
This was the invention of stainless steel. Today, it is used in many fields, from medicine to architecture. We see it in cutlery, surgical tools, and even skyscrapers. People choose stainless steel because it is strong and clean.
August 18, 1868
Helium Observed for the First Time in the Solar Spectrum
French astronomer Jules Janssen observed a yellow spectral line during a solar eclipse in Guntur, India. It did not match any known element. British scientist Norman Lockyer confirmed the observation. Later, he named the new element “helium” after the Greek sun god Helios.
Helium was isolated much later. But this was the first time a chemical element was found in space before it was found on Earth.
As a matter of fact, helium is used in cryogenics, space exploration, and medical imaging.
August 20, 1897
Ronald Ross Discovers Mosquito-Malaria Link
Ronald Ross was a British doctor. He worked in India to study malaria. He found malaria parasites inside female Anopheles mosquitoes. This showed that mosquito bites spread the disease. Additionally, his discovery proved a theory by Charles Laveran.
Earlier, Laveran had said that a vector, like a mosquito, causes malaria. This was a major step in understanding how the disease spreads.
Thus, this discovery transformed public health approaches to malaria control. Further, Ross was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology in 1902. His work laid the foundation for modern epidemiology.
Conclusion: Historic Events in August
When we look at these historic events in August, we see more than just single wins. We see teamwork and big efforts. Science moves forward because many people keep trying. Every vaccine, satellite, or idea has a story. That story includes hard work and smart thinking. These moments still inspire people today. They help students and scientists keep going. History is not only about the past. It also helps us build the future.
Let this month’s Time Capsule make you curious. Let it push you to keep learning.
Additionally, to stay updated with the latest developments in STEM research, visit ENTECH Online. Basically, this is our digital magazine for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Furthermore, at ENTECH Online, you’ll find a wealth of information.
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I am currently pursuing Masters degree in Chemistry from the University of Lucknow, and I hold a keen interest in both the subject and its broader applications. With a particular fascination for physical and organic chemistry, my academic path is complemented by a passion for science communication and writing.
I am also actively involved in extracurricular activities, especially public speaking, and debates, where I learned to think clearly and communicate effectively. These experiences have been instrumental in developing my confidence, critical reasoning, and a sense of responsibility toward effective knowledge-sharing.
My skill set includes research writing and editing, and of course, a constant zeal to learn more from everybody. Alongside academics, I enjoy reading poetry and history. My hobbies include singing and gardening.
I have participated in platforms that support women in science, such as IUPAC’s Global Women’s Breakfast. These engagements have helped shape my perspective and strengthened my resolve to contribute positively wherever possible.