A Brilliant Brain

Su Song

1020–1101 — China

Era: Medieval

Brilliance: 9/10 | Stewardship: 7/10 | Composite Index: 63

A 40-foot computer. In 1088.

"The heavens speak through instruments."

Biography

Built most sophisticated astronomical clock tower of medieval world — 40foot, hydromechanical, chain drive, escapement, programmable automata.

Key Facts

  • 40-foot astronomical clock tower (1088)
  • First known chain drive
  • Programmable automata and escapement
  • Also pharmacologist, diplomat, cartographer
  • Technology lost for centuries

He built a programmable water-powered computer. In 1088.

Total BrainCoins: 0

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