The name "Heysem" comes from the famous scientist Ibn al-Haytham. He is referred to as the first known scientist because until al-Haytham, science was progressing through theories, while al-Haytham laid the foundation of today's science. He was a pioneer by combining theory, observation and experiment.
THE PIONEER OF OPTICAL SCIENCE: Heysem HEYSEM
Ibn al-Haytham, believed to be born in the city of Basra in Iraq, passed away in the city of Cairo, Egypt, in 1039. Alhazen He is recognized as Alhazen in the West. It is observed that Basra, Baghdad, Damascus, and Cairo held a significant place in his personal life. This importance stems from the fact that these cities were cultural hubs in terms of scientific knowledge during that period. The knowledge he acquired during his travels to these mentioned cities enriched him with significant experiences in philosophy, logic, physics, mathematics, astronomy, and medical sciences.
His ideas in the fields of mathematics, astronomy, and physics hold a significant place. He pondered over what light is, how it propagates, and how light refractions occur. He proposed unique thoughts and theories distinct from the Aristotelian understanding prevailing before him. Particularly in his seven-volume book, "Kitâbü’l-Menâzır," he provided detailed information on direct vision, reflections, and refractions. He stated that rays of light travel from one place to another in a straight line. He conducted experiments on the linear propagation of light, the characteristics of shadows, camera obscura, the formation of rainbows, and halos. Through these studies, he became the founder of optics. His work in optics influenced subsequent scientists in the field.
