Author: Harsch, Viktor

Source: Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Volume 77, Number 8, August 2006 , pp. 867-869(3)

Publisher: Aerospace Medical Association

Abstract:

Harsch V. Robert Hooke, inventor of the vacuum pump and the first altitude chamber (1671). Aviat Space Environ Med 2006; 77:867-869.

Robert Hooke (1635-1703), an assistant researcher to Robert Boyle (1627-1691), invented the first functional British air pump. Applying it to scientific research, Hooke operated the world's first hypobaric chamber in 1671, using it for self-experimentation. He recorded the first physiological observations in an artificial altitude-equivalent environment up to 2400 m. Though Hooke's experiment showed some methodological insufficiencies, his imaginative experimental techniques were remarkable for their time and were indicative of the lively intellectual atmosphere of the Royal Society and the significant contributions of Hooke, who was a member. Two centuries passed before the French physiologist Paul Bert (1830-1886) conducted his famous laboratory-supported investigations of high altitude physiology. Bert played a decisive role in the discovery of the causes of decompression sickness; a contribution Hooke could not make due to the technical deficiencies of the 17th century.

References: 1 reference open in new window

Articles that cite this article?

Keywords: history of medicine; Robert Hooke; altitude chamber; medical ethics

Document Type: Research article

Publication date: 2006-08-01

More about this publication?

• The peer-reviewed monthly journal, Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine (ASEM) provides contact with physicians, life scientists, bioengineers, and medical specialists working in both basic medical research and in its clinical applications. It is the most used and cited journal in its field. ASEM is distributed to more than 80 nations.
• Information for Authors
• Subscribe to this Title
• Membership Information
• Information for Advertisers
• Submit Articles
• 2011 Annual Meeting and Event Information
• ingentaconnect is not responsible for the content or availability of external websites

Related content

• In this: publication
• By this: publisher
• In this Subject: Transportation ,  Medicine (General) ,  Public Health
• By this author: Harsch, Viktor

Website © Publishing Technology. Article copyright remains with the publisher, society or author(s) as specified within the article.

• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Information for advertisers