Longitude

The tenth anniversary edition of Longitude by Dava Sobel brings readers a captivating and dramatic recount of one of the greatest scientific quests in history: the search for a reliable method to determine a ship’s longitude at sea. This engrossing tale centres around the epic struggle to solve the “longitude problem,” a scientific conundrum that, for centuries, left sailors adrift and imperilled on the vast oceans. Without an accurate way to calculate their longitude, navigators faced treacherous journeys, leading to countless shipwrecks and loss of life.

Set against the backdrop of the Age of Exploration, the story spans the early 18th century, when maritime navigation was fraught with peril. By 1714, the British Parliament recognised the gravity of the situation and offered a princely sum of £20,000 to anyone who could devise a practical solution. This substantial reward sparked intense competition and a flood of speculative ideas, some outlandish, from aspiring inventors and quacks alike.

Amidst this fervour, renowned scientists from Galileo to Sir Isaac Newton sought celestial answers by meticulously mapping the stars. However, it was John Harrison, a self-taught English clockmaker, who imagined a completely different and mechanical solution. Against all odds and the scepticism of the scientific community, Harrison dedicated his life to developing a marine chronometer—a timekeeping device that could withstand the unpredictable conditions at sea and provide accurate longitude readings.

Longitude is not just a riveting account of Harrison’s invention; it is also a rich narrative filled with heroism and deceit, brilliance and absurdity. Sobel provides a detailed exploration of the history of astronomy, navigation, and horology. Her vivid storytelling brings to life the relentless pursuit of knowledge and the intrigue surrounding this monumental breakthrough.

This edition includes a new Foreword by celebrated astronaut Neil Armstrong, who underscores the book's timeless relevance and inspiring impact. As New Scientist aptly puts it, “Sobel has done the impossible and made horology sexy—no mean feat.” 

Ultimately, Longitude is an inspiring chronicle of human ingenuity and tenacity, showcasing how one man's vision and determination revolutionised navigation, saved lives, and altered the course of history.