Book Description

An exploration of Lovell's life and achievements in the scientific and political context of the time The extraordinary life of Bernard Lovell began before World War I and his story encompasses many of the great events of the last 100 years: World War II, the invention of radio astronomy, the space race, the Moon landings, the exploration of the solar system, the Cold War, the Cuban missile crisis, and the defense of Britain against nuclear attack. It can now be revealed that he was also a spy. The great radio telescope which Lovell built became and remains one of the most important scientific instruments in the world. The Jodrell Bank Observatory and the Lovell Telescope have held their place at the frontier of research for 55 years. His legacy remains great, as can be seen from the extensive media coverage and personal tributes that his death in 2012 attracted all over the world. With the 70th anniversaries of many wartime events in which he played a crucial role, as well as the recent declassification of information relating to his activities as an agent in the Cold War, this biography is sure to have a broad and timely interest.