Ukichiro Nakaya working in his low temperature laboratory (Photo: Hokkaido University Archives)
H
okkaido University put the cornerstone of the development of low temperature science upon the birth of the Institute of Low Temperature Science (ILTS) in 1941. Prior to its establishment, the institution owes gratitude to the founding father, Ukichiro Nakaya (1900-1962). Through his groundbreaking research and innovations, Nakaya made his name known to the world, particularly in the scientific findings on snowflakes. The year 2020 marked the 120th anniversary of Nakaya’s birth, in which we also commemorate his achievements and influence in the development of low temperature science. Ukichiro Nakaya – An individual ahead of his time
Born in 1900, in what is now Kaga City of Ishikawa Prefecture, Nakaya moved to Hokkaido in 1932 to fill in the position of Assistant Professor at Hokkaido Imperial University’s (current Hokkaido University) School of Science. Relocating to the cold area tweaked his curiosity and challenged him to carry on scientific observations on snow crystal formations in the Tokachi Region and Mount Asahidake of Hokkaido. In 1935, a special low temperature science laboratory was finally erected on the campus which
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allowed Nakaya to gain deeper insights on snow regardless of the season. In March 1936, using a convective snow-making apparatus they had constructed out of cylindrical glass, a historical moment took place within the lab. By adjusting the air temperature and humidity, Nakaya and his colleagues managed to form the very
first artificial snowflake at the tip of a thin sliver of rabbit’s hair, taken from the fur coat of one of his assistants. Following this success, Nakaya proceeded to produce more snow-related findings such as the “Nakaya Diagram” — a diagram of snow crystal morphology — that has been developed ever since and significantly contributes to meteorological
Low temperature science:
THE PAST, THE PRESENT, AND FUTURE
