Robert Watson-Watt

Robert Watson-Watt, the pioneer of radar technology, was born in 1398 in Union Street, Brechin.

Robert Watson-Watt, the pioneer of radar technology, was born in Brechin, Scotland. He later became instrumental in the development of radar systems during World War II.

In 1912, Robert Watson-Watt graduated with a Bachelor of Science in engineering. This educational achievement laid the foundation for his future contributions in the field of radio technology.

In 1915, Robert Watson-Watt started his professional career as a meteorologist at the Meteorological Office. He later became known for his work in developing radar technology.

In 1916, Robert Watson-Watt came up with the idea of utilizing a cathode ray oscilloscope in aircraft to measure and display electrical signals. However, this concept was not put into practice until 1923.

In 1923, Robert Watson-Watt invented rotating directional antennas to detect thunderstorms. By using oscilloscopes to display the output of the antennas, operators could pinpoint the direction of storms by looking for 'spikes' caused by lightning.

In 1924, Robert Watson-Watt moved from Farnborough to work at the newly established research centre at Ditton Park near Slough. This research center later merged with the National Physical Laboratory, where Watson-Watt led the Radio Department in Teddington, Middlesex.

In 1926, Watson-Watt's new lightning detection system, utilizing Adcock antenna and WE-224 oscilloscope, was being used and extensively documented.

In 1927, the Met and NPL radio teams were combined to establish the Radio Research Station with Watson-Watt as the director. The teams conducted research on the causes of 'static' radio signals and discovered the reflection of distant signals off the upper atmosphere, providing evidence for the existence of the Heaviside layer.

In 1933, after a reorganization, Watson-Watt became the Superintendent of the Radio Department at NPL in Teddington. This marked a significant development in his career and contributions to the field of radio research.

By 1934, Robert Watson-Watt had advanced in his career and assumed the position of the head of the Radio Research Department. This position signified his growing influence and expertise in the field.

On February 12, 1935, Watson-Watt, the country's radio-wave expert, responded to the Tizard committee's inquiry about using radio waves for detecting enemy planes. He proposed the concept of bouncing radio waves off aircraft metal hulls to detect their presence, laying the groundwork for radar technology.

On February 26, 1935, Roberts Watson Watt and Arnold Wilkins demonstrated in Britain the ability to detect aircraft by bouncing radio waves off them. This technology evolved into radar, which played a crucial role in the defense of Britain during the Battle of Britain in 1940.

On April 2, 1935, Robert Watson-Watt was granted a patent for radar after conducting research on detecting signals from the nearby BBC radio transmitter reflecting off a circling RAF bomber at ranges of up to 8 miles.

In 1936, Robert Watson-Watt established a radar research station at Bawdsey Manor in Suffolk under the Air Ministry. This station played a crucial role in the development of radar technology during the pre-war years.

In 1937, the Chain Home radar system was established to improve the interception of approaching bombers. This system involved sending all reports to a central map room for better coordination with intercepting fighters.

In September 1938, the first of the Chain Home radars, developed by Robert Watson-Watt, began 24-hour duty, marking a significant advancement in air defense technology.

During World War II, an order for 20 more Chain Home stations was placed, with 19 stations operational by the outbreak of war and over 50 built by 1945. The effectiveness of Watson-Watt's new command and control system was proven through tests.

In 1940, the Chain Home system, developed by Robert Watson-Watt and team, was fully operational during the Battle of Britain. This radar system provided early warning to British fighters, allowing them to intercept German bombers before reaching their targets.

In 1941, Watson-Watt traveled to the USA to assist in enhancing air defenses following the Pearl Harbor attack.

In 1942, Watson-Watt was knighted for his contributions to radar technology and air defense.

In 1943, at the age of 51, Robert Watson-Watt was knighted and changed the form of his surname to Watson-Watt.

In 1945, Robert Watson-Watt was invited to deliver the Royal Institution Christmas Lecture on Wireless.

In 1946, at the age of 54, Robert Watson-Watt was awarded the US Medal for Merit.

In 1948, at the age of 56, Robert Watson-Watt was awarded the Hughes Medal by the Royal Society.

In 1949, at the age of 57, Robert Watson-Watt became the President of the Royal Meteorological Society.

The book 'Philosophers of War: The Evolution of History's Greatest Military Thinkers' by Mark Celinscak includes a section on Sir Robert Watson-Watt.

In 1952, Sir Robert Watson-Watt was granted £52,000 tax-free by the UK government's Royal Commission on Awards to Inventors for his contributions to the development of RADAR. This recognition highlighted his significant role in advancing technology during wartime.

In 1956, while living in Canada, Robert Watson-Watt was pulled over by a police officer for speeding, experiencing the new application of his radar technology in radar guns.

In 1958, Robert Watson-Watt published 'Three Steps to Victory', his personal account detailing the development of the radar system.

In 1966, at the age of 72, Robert Watson-Watt married his third wife, Dame Katheryn Jane Trefusis Forbes, who was 67 years old.

Dame Katheryn Jane Trefusis Forbes passed away in 1971.

Robert Watson-Watt passed away on December 5, 1973, leaving behind a legacy of innovation in radar technology that had a lasting impact on military defense strategies.

In a public poll, Robert Watson-Watt was voted as the fourth most popular scientist from the past, showcasing his enduring legacy.

In 2013, Robert Watson-Watt was inducted into the Scottish Engineering Hall of Fame.

A statue of Robert Watson-Watt was revealed in Brechin on September 3, 2014, by HRH the Princess Royal.