| |
| Joseph von Fraunhofer |
| (3/6/1787 – 6/7/1826) |
| |
| Glassmaker, physicist and researcher |
| |
By teaching himself mathematics and physics, Joseph von Fraunhofer became the most important optician in the first quarter of the 19th century. Thanks to his manual skills and scientific genius, he mastered the art of producing instruments with unvarying properties. With the aid of the lines in the solar spectrum that now bear his name, he created the principles for the correct computation of achromatic lenses.
With the aid of the lines in the solar spectrum that now bear his name, he created the principles for the correct computation of achromatic lenses. From the diffraction of spectral colors using self-made diffraction gratings, he calculated the exact wavelengths of light in the various regions of the spectrum.
The quality of the optics he produced led to pioneering discoveries in astronomy. Today, due to his activities as an entrepreneur, Joseph von Fraunhofer is seen as the founder of the German optical Industry.
| For the kind provision of photographic material, we would like to thank Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft an the Deutsche Museum. |
| |
|