1895
Signals without a wire
Marconi experimented with wireless signals in 1895. Explore the step from laboratory work to communication over distance; wireless telegraphy and spoken broadcasting are different stages of this story.
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1865–1888 / Sending without wires
Who discovered radio waves?
Radio waves are a natural phenomenon. Maxwell’s electromagnetic theory, published in 1865, and Hertz’s experiments in the 1880s are different steps: prediction and experimental demonstration. Practical wireless communication came later.
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1920–1925
Listening through a crystal
This Science Museum Group record describes a crystal receiver made in Manchester around 1920–1925. A small object opens a question: how much skill did early listening require?
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1922
2LO: a voice from London
The Science Museum dates the first BBC broadcast from 2LO to 14 November 1922. A transmitter helps us connect technical equipment with the growth of regular programmes.
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From radio history to radio today
World Radio Now helps you listen to live stations around the world. Explore a historical voice, then discover music, news and culture on today’s airwaves.