What is Time Good For, Anyway?

From ancient sundials to satellites, our ability to measure time has shaped how we navigate the world and understand the universe. In this public talk, Glenn Wong explores the evolution of timekeeping—from solving longitude at sea to the creation of time zones and Einstein’s theory of relativity. He traces the development of clocks, from water clocks and pocket watches to atomic clocks that make modern GPS possible, revealing why precise timekeeping underpins much of daily life. After the talk, Sara Schechner, David P. Wheatland Curator Emerita of the Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments at Harvard University, will display antique timepieces from the museum’s collection. No vitrines—just you and the objects. Free with museum admission; advance registration recommended.