American Decades

Important Events in Science and Technology, 1970–1979

In January, molecular biologist Hamilton O. Smith isolates the first enzyme that cuts a sequence of nucleotide bases from a strand of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA).
On January 21, the Boeing 747, the first jumbo jet, is put into commercial service.
In March, International Business Machines (IBM) introduces the floppy disk for storing computer data.
On April 3, President Richard M. Nixon signs the Water Quality Improvement Act to reduce water pollution.
On April 11, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) launches Apollo 13. Two days later an oxygen leak and fire disable the spacecraft, and the astronauts barely make it home.
On April 22, people in countries throughout the world celebrate the first Earth Day.
In August, large reflecting telescopes are completed at Kitt Peak, Arizona, and Mauna Kea, Hawaii.
On December 11, U.S. agronomist...

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