December 20

Cathode-Ray Tube Day

Get ready to go retro and celebrate Cathode-Ray Tube Day - honor the technology that paved the way for modern TV screens!

Yearly Date
December 20
Type
Day
Category
Fun

Introduction

Get ready to travel back in time and celebrate Cathode-Ray Tube Day on December 20! This unique holiday celebrates the invention of the cathode-ray tube, a technology that revolutionized television and computer screens. It was first created by German physicist Karl Ferdinand Braun in 1897, and has since evolved into the flat-screen displays we use today. So let's take a moment to appreciate this groundbreaking invention and all the entertainment and information it has brought us over the years. Happy Cathode-Ray Tube Day!

Cathode-Ray Tube Day Timeline

1838
Discovery of Cathode Rays
German physicist Julius Plücker discovers cathode rays, laying the groundwork for the future invention of the cathode-ray tube.
1897
Braun's Cathode-Ray Tube
German physicist Karl Ferdinand Braun invents the cathode-ray tube (CRT), a vital component for early televisions and computer displays.
1923
Electronic Television System
American inventor Philo T. Farnsworth develops the first successful electronic television system, thrusting CRT tech into the mainstream.
1953
Color TV Production
The mass production of color televisions begins in the United States, boosting the demand for CRTs even more.
1971
First CRT Computer Display
The Ametek 931, the first CRT computer terminal, is introduced, further expanding the use of cathode-ray tubes.
2007
CRT Production Decline
The majority of manufacturers cease CRT production as flat-screen technology, such as LCD and plasma displays, become the new norm.

How to Celebrate Cathode-Ray Tube Day

1

Create a CRT art project

Gather some old cathode-ray tubes and use them to create a unique art piece. You can paint or decorate them to your liking and display them in your home or office.

2

Throw a CRT-themed party

Invite friends over for a party celebrating the invention of the cathode-ray tube. Decorate with retro technology and play old school video games on CRT TVs for a nostalgic evening.

3

Watch classic movies on a CRT TV

Find a vintage CRT TV and watch some classic films that were originally viewed on these types of screens. It will give you a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the technology that brought us these beloved movies.

4

Visit a technology museum

Spend the day at a technology museum and learn more about the history and impact of cathode-ray tubes. You may even get to see some in action!

5

Experiment with CRT screens

If you have access to a cathode-ray tube, try conducting some experiments with it. See what happens when you change its position or add different materials to the screen. You never know what interesting results you may discover!

Why We Love Cathode-Ray Tube Day

A

It celebrates an important technology

Cathode-Ray Tube (CRT) technology paved the way for modern television screens and monitors. It is a groundbreaking invention that has greatly impacted the way we consume media and information. Celebrating this day is a way to appreciate the technology that has shaped our lives.

B

It's a nostalgic reminder of the past

Before the rise of flat-screen TVs, CRT TVs were a staple in households around the world. This holiday allows us to reflect on simpler times and remember how this technology was once cutting edge. It's a great opportunity to share memories with friends and family about watching old shows or playing video games on CRT screens.

C

It's a chance to learn about technological advancements

Although CRTs are no longer widely used, learning about their history and evolution can help us understand the progression of technology. It also opens the door to learning about newer technologies and how they have built upon and improved upon CRT technology.

Cathode-Ray Tube Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Dec 19
Tuesday
2024
Dec 19
Thursday
2025
Dec 19
Friday
2026
Dec 19
Saturday
2027
Dec 19
Sunday