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Today in Tech History: August 8 Video

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Today in Tech History: August 8
Created: 08/06/2008
Video description: Giant observatories, the mimeograph is born, and Wilbur Wright goes flying.

Today in Tech History: August 8 Video Transcript

Hi, I'm Molly Wood. It's August 8, 2008, and here's what happened today in technology history. On this date in 1576, the cornerstone was laid the Uraniborg, a huge observatory built east of Copenhagen, in Denmark. It was the first custom-built observatory, designed by famed astronomer Tycho Brahe. It is also considered one of the most expensive science projects -- when it was built, it was estimated to cost about 1 percent of the entire Danish state budget. And Brahe abandoned it shortly after it was built, because its tower design was too windy for his delicate instruments. On this date in 1876, Thomas Edison receives US patent for the mimeograph. The patent covered the electric pen and the flatbed duplicating press. Today in 1908, Wilbur Wright -- you know, Wright brothers, showed off his first flight at the racecourse in Le Mans, France. It was the Wright Brothers' first public flight. And finally ... this date marks the passing of ... Today in Tech History. I'm sad to report that we've decided to cancel this show, so I can focus my energy on other projects, like Buzz Out Loud, Gadgettes, Buzz Report, Mailbag, and producing more great help and how-to content like Insider Secrets and Quick Tips. I've learned a lot from this show, though, and I hope you have, too! I'll see you on CNET TV!

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