The Robert Hooke Exhibition

One of the World's greatest scientists

Robert Hooke was perhaps one of the most important scientists from the 17th century. While his research and findings were often overshadowed by those of his rival Sir Isaac Newton, one cannot argue their importance in the development of fields such as physics, astronomy, biology, and medicine, to name a few.

One could say he was England's equivalent of 14th century genius Leonardo da Vinci, that he was a true renaissance man who was constantly seeking answers to questions, and inventing new and ingenious scientific instruments. Hooke's inventions include the spring control of the balance wheel in watches, and the first reflecting telescope. Hooke also worked as an architect, although his dreams of redesigning London following the Great Fire of 1666 were brought down to smaller proportions.

One must realize that Robert Hooke's advances in the field of Microscopy and Astronomy opened doors which would one day lead to discoveries from scientists such as Dr. Edwin Hubble, and that some of his other inventions such as the universal joint, which is being used in the automobile industry, and his balanced springs, which are still part of some of the watches we wear. Hooke's Law and his combustion theory are still used by today's scientists.

Alas, for all the genius and for all his triumphs, Hooke was a sickly, bitter man who's work had oft been at the source of others' successes, a man who spent his entire life alone, orphaned at the age of 13 following his father's death. To make matters worse, Hooke's one true love (Grace Hooke), also happened to be his niece, and the short while the two actually lived together at Hooke's home, there is no indication his love was reciprocated. Hooke died alone, his estate being sold at auction to an illiterate woman by the name of Elizabeth Stevens.

Official Opening - 21st July 2007

The Robert Hooke Exhibition at the Island Planetarium was official opened by Dr. Allan Chapman on 21st July 2007. More details will follow soon, with pictures of the event and reviews.
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Dedication of Carved Stone Memorial in St Paul's Cathederal to Robert Hooke


At last, after a 300 year wait, a carved stone memorial to Robert Hooke in St. Paul's Cathedral was dedicated by the Dean after Evensong on Tuesday 9th December2008. (See reverse side) The memorial is sited next to the tomb of his friend and colleague, Sir Christopher Wren, in the crypt.

Click Here to read more. (PDF 140kb)