Katharine Burr Blodgett’s story shows how a brilliant legacy can be forgotten

image via New Scientist

March 13, 2026, 3:00 PM

• •Katharine Burr Blodgett was a pioneering scientist who developed non-reflecting glass.
• •Blodgett's work was overshadowed by the fame of her colleague Irving Langmuir.
• •Her contributions faded from both GE and public memory over time.
• •The article explores how legacies are preserved or lost, focusing on Blodgett's story.

This article explores the life and legacy of Katharine Burr Blodgett, a pioneering female scientist whose contributions, including non-reflecting glass, were overshadowed. It details her work at General Electric, her collaboration with Irving Langmuir, and her involvement in projects like cloud seeding. Despite her significant achievements and impact, Blodgett's contributions were eventually forgotten by both the company and the public. The article examines the factors contributing to this erasure and highlights the importance of remembering and celebrating her scientific contributions.

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