Make: Maverick Scientist: My Adventures as an Amateur Scientist

Maverick Scientist is the memoir of Forrest Mims, a self-made scientist with no academic training who forged a distinguished scientific career. Despite lacking engineering degree, he invented rocket control, built an analog computer, created a hand-held radar-like device for the blind, and did top secret laser research at the Air Force Weapons Lab. He co-founded MITS, Inc., wrote electronics books for Radio Shack, and designed the Atari Punk Console. The book shares a revelatory look inside the scientific community and showcases a lifelong learner who stood by his convictions.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 23 February 2024
Publisher: O'Reilly Media

Maverick Scientist is the captivating memoir of Forrest Mims, a remarkable scientist who achieved great success despite lacking formal academic training in science. Recognized as one of the 50 Best Brains in Science by Discover magazine, Forrest shares the inspiration that sparked his childhood curiosity and delves into a lifetime of extraordinary, dramatic, and occasionally perilous experiences in the world of science.

At the tender age of thirteen, Forrest's inventiveness knew no bounds as he unveiled a groundbreaking method of rocket control. Just a few years later, at seventeen, he embarked on an ambitious project: designing and constructing an analog computer capable of translating Russian into English. This remarkable creation was acquired by the Smithsonian as a valuable example of an early hobby computer. While pursuing a degree in government at Texas A&M University, Forrest's creativity flourished as he developed a handheld device resembling radar, designed to assist blind individuals in navigating their surroundings. His ingenuity was further recognized when he was granted special clearance to conduct top-secret laser research at the Air Force Weapons Lab, despite lacking the requisite engineering degree. The Air Force valued his unique perspective and sought his innovative thinking for the project.

Following his remarkable achievements, Forrest co-founded MITS, Inc., a company that played a pivotal role in the commercialization of the first personal computer. His extensive knowledge in electronics led to the publication of a series of highly successful electronics books for Radio Shack, which sold an impressive seven million copies. Forrest's contributions extended to the realm of music technology as he designed the renowned Atari Punk Console, a music synthesizer circuit that gained notoriety.

Before embarking on his consulting work for NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center and NOAA's renowned Mauna Loa Observatory, Forrest's career took yet another exciting turn. He earned the prestigious Rolex Award, a testament to his outstanding contributions to science.

In Maverick Scientist, Forrest offers an intimate portrait of a self-made scientist, providing a revealing glimpse into the inner workings of the scientific community. Through his story, Forrest emerges as a lifelong learner who remained steadfast in his convictions, even when faced with pressure from the establishment to conform to conventional wisdom. The book is adorned with dozens of personal photos and illustrations, serving as a testament to Forrest's remarkable journey and achievements.

Maverick Scientist serves as a powerful testament to the indomitable spirit of a scientist who defied conventions and pursued his passion with unwavering determination. Forrest Mims' story inspires and empowers individuals to embrace their own unique talents and pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they may encounter.

Weight: 504g
Dimension: 228 x 150 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781680458169