The IEEE Global Museum Unseen Signals traveling exhibit celebrates the life of the unsung genius and IEEE Medal of Honor winner Edwin H. Armstrong by highlighting his technological innovations, patriotism, and the continuing relevance of his achievements. It delves into Armstrong’s intellectual and professional journey against a backdrop of progress in wireless communication. Beginning with an exploration of the humble origins of the radio era during the early 20th century, we invite visitors to immerse themselves in Armstrong’s university years, his military service during the First World War, his alliance with the Radio Corporation of America (RCA), and the rise of the radio broadcasting industry.

Between Armstrong’s triumphs and tragedies, Unseen Signals reveals the profound cultural and political impact of broadcasting and the influence of WWI and WWII on wireless communication. It recaptures how men, women, and children participated in the radio revolution through photographs, advertisements, and our unique collection of radio-branded cultural items and ephemera. Come and see the prototype (superheterodyne) radio from which modern radios are descended, and explore the three touchscreen interactives featuring original radio broadcasts and short documentary films.

Venues

National Museum of Industrial History (Bethlehem, PA)
November 2, 2024 to April 30, 2025
IEEE Members and their guests receive a 50% discount on entry.

Infoage Science and History Museums (Wall, NJ)
May 24, 2025 to December 28, 2025
IEEE Members and their guests receive free entry.