Endless Novelties of Extraordinary Interest: The Voyage of H.M.S. Challenger and the Birth of Modern Oceanography

An "informative, engaging" account of exploration aboard H.M.S. Challenger, an expedition that laid the foundations for modern oceanography (Victorian Studies). From late 1872 to 1876, H.M.S. Challenger explored the world's oceans. Conducting deep sea soundings, dredging the ocean floor, recording temperatures, observing weather, and collecting biological samples, the expedition laid the foundations for modern oceanography. Following the ship's naturalists and their discoveries, earth scientist Doug Macdougall engagingly tells a story of Victorian-era adventure and ties these early explorations to the growth of modern scientific fields. In this lively story of discovery, hardship, and humor, Macdougall examines the work of the expedition's scientists, especially the naturalist Henry Moseley, who rigorously categorized the flora and fauna of the islands the ship visited, and the legacy of John Murray, considered the father of modern oceanography. Macdougall explores not just the expedition itself but also the iconic place that H.M.S. Challenger has achieved in the annals of ocean exploration and science. "Very interesting and widely accessible." —Johannes E. Riutta, The Well-read Naturalist "Macdougall . . . connects the Challenger findings with modern oceanographic and even lunar explorations. The result is truly a delight to read." —Brian Skinner, Yale University "The excitement of discovery is infectiously brought to life in this delightful read. A landmark book about a landmark voyage." —Nick Fraser, National Museums Scotland

© 2019 Yale University Press (E-bog): 9780300249088

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E-bog: 20. august 2019