Recognition at last for the scientist you’ve never heard of who helped put men on the moon

[Still Waters]

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It has been nearly 70 years since Francis Thomas Bacon developed a source of clean green energy that would help power the first moon landing and change the course of history.

Yet, few are aware of the Cambridge-based engineer, known as Tom, whose invention of the first working hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell helped send Apollo 11 to the moon. His pioneering work is still a source of inspiration for scientists working on renewable energy solutions today.

Now, the charity Cambridge Past, Present & Future is seeking to shine a light on Bacon’s remarkable achievements by honouring him with a blue plaque at his former home in Little Shelford, Cambridgeshire.

Bacon’s fuel cells – nicknamed “Bacon Cells” by Nasa in his honour – provided secondary power for the Apollo missions, producing electricity for the communications, air conditioning and lights, as well as water for the astronauts.

https://www.theguardian.com/science/2024/nov/02/recognition-at-last-for-tom-bacon-the-scientist-youve-never-heard-of-who-helped-put-men-on-the-moon