The Harris Museum & Art Gallery has demonstrated the UK's longest Foucault pendulum, marking a significant milestone in both scientific education and cultural heritage preservation.
The impressive 35-metre pendulum, which surpasses the London Science Museum's 22.45-metre installation, was precision-calibrated and set in motion by University of Lancashire academics, offering a rare glimpse into the intersection of 19th-century scientific innovation and cutting-edge modern technology.
"This pendulum represents more than just a scientific instrument – it's a living demonstration of our planet's rotation and a testament to the enduring power of scientific curiosity," said Dr Brett Patterson, Pendulum Project Scientist and Senior Lecturer in Physics at the University of Lancashire who built the pendulum's sophisticated electronic systems.
"At 35 metres, this is not just the longest pendulum in the UK, but a precision instrument that has taken months of careful calibration to achieve perfect operation."
This pendulum represents more than just a scientific instrument – it's a living demonstration of our planet's rotation and a testament to the enduring power of scientific curiosity.– Dr Brett Patterson, Pendulum Project Scientist and Senior Lecturer in Physics
The Foucault pendulum, originally installed in 1909 and reinstated in 1992, demonstrates one of physics' most elegant proofs of Earth's rotation. As the heavy pendulum swings in a fixed direction relative to the stars, the Earth rotates beneath it, creating the illusion that the pendulum's plane of oscillation is shifting when viewed from the ground.
Professor Derek Ward-Thompson, Pendulum Project Adviser and Director of the Jeremiah Horrocks Institute of the University of Lancashire, explained: "What makes this installation special is not just its impressive length, but the sophisticated modern systems we've integrated to ensure reliable, long-term operation. This fusion of historical significance and contemporary technology exemplifies the best of both scientific heritage and innovation."
The launch forms part of The Harris’ highly anticipated reopening on the 28th September following a £19 million transformation, one of the most significant cultural investments in Preston's history. The renovated museum will feature exhibitions including work by Preston-born Nick Park, creator of Wallace & Gromit, alongside new commissions by international artists.
Councillor Hindle, Cabinet Member for Culture and Arts at Preston City Council, said: "The Harris has always been at the heart of Preston's cultural life. The pendulum perfectly encapsulates our vision – respecting our scientific and cultural heritage while embracing innovative approaches to public engagement with science and the arts."
Helen Featherstone, Director, England North, at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: "The restoration of The Harris’ historic Foucault pendulum is a wonderful focal point that also highlights what we aim to achieve through our funding – preserving our remarkable heritage while making it accessible and inspiring for new generations.
“It is fantastic to see University of Lancashire’s cutting-edge Physics expertise breathe new life into this 35-metre Victorian scientific wonder thanks to money raised by National Lottery players. We're proud that our funding is helping to ensure this exceptional piece of scientific history continues to educate and inspire visitors for years to come, and that it will play a key attraction in the wider transformation of The Harris."
