Slide Rule Examples

Slide rules were widely used in engineering, science, and mathematicsĀ until the early 1970s, including during the Gemini and Apollo space programs. Although rendered largely obsolete by the advent of inexpensive electronic calculators, their descendants continue to have specialized applications, such as backup flight computers.

Buzz Aldrin and a floating slide rule during Gemini 12 on 1966 November 13 (NASA).

Buzz Aldrin and a floating slide rule during Gemini 12 on 1966 November 13 (NASA).

The giant Taylor Bowl slide rule used to be used to teach the slide rule but today is the trophy for the annual Taylor Hall bowling tournament between the Physics and Math Clubs.

The giant Taylor Bowl slide rule trophy and a victorious Physics Club on 2019 April 28.

The giant Taylor Bowl slide rule trophy and a victorious Physics Club on 2019 April 28.

About John F. Lindner

John F. Lindner was born in Sleepy Hollow, New York, and educated at the University of Vermont and Caltech. He is an emeritus professor of physics and astronomy at The College of Wooster and a visiting professor at North Carolina State University. He has enjoyed multiple yearlong sabbaticals at Georgia Tech, University of Portland, University of Hawai'i, and NCSU. His research interests include nonlinear dynamics, celestial mechanics, and neural networks.
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