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Science and Happy Accidents

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sciencecafe.jpg

What do GPS and penicillin have in common? Both were unexpected results of pure scientific research. Happy accidents happen more often than you'd think. The mathematical framework for computer programming grew out of research on astronomy. Scientists learned how to build a microwave oven as they researched radar during World War Two. John Mike McIntyre on The Sound of Ideas for a look at happy accidents that have revolutionized our lives. Colin McLarty, PhD, Professor of Philosophy and Professor of Mathematics Case Western Reserve University
Dante Centuori, director of creative productions, Great Lakes Science Center
Howard Ross, PhD, Associate director, NASA Glenn Research Center