Customer Reviews

The Wind and Beyond: Theodore von Karman, Pioneer in Aviation and Pathfinder in Space

5 star:		(3)
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3 star:		(1)
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An excellent (auto)biography of the famous scientist of aerodynamics. It is written in a non-technical language, enjoyable for everyone (Karman was renown for the clarity of his explanations). We get an original insight behind the scenes of political and scientific life of the first half of this century through the recital of his trips to many countries of the world, where he participated in scientific or national/military projects, and his encounters with leading figures of his time (both scientific and political).

An other perspective on the life of a scientist, on science and history, from a personal point of view. In addition, if you know some physics you will recognize the names of most of the leading figures of the era. You find some amusing anecdotes about these people.

I recommend this book for people interested in the (amazing) life of a scientist, placed in an easy-to-follow scientific and historical context.

A largely autobiographical account that brings to life a wonderful character who conributed much to the advancement of aeronautics. Love his ebullience or deplore his self-advertisment of his undoubted genius, this is the man himself, warts and all. Much to be recommended.

One doesn't need to know how important scientific and technological advances and ideas came about to exploit them. To learn their historical development is lots of fun though and dr von Karman is a wonderful story teller.

If you are intersted in the history of technology then this book would interest you. Fluid mechanics, turbulence and early flight are covered; with refernces to many early theoreticians such as Prandtl and Blasius.