John Harman is a character of Isaac Asimov's science-fiction short story "Trends".
About John[]
Dr. John Harman is a pioneering scientist determined to achieve the first human flight to the Moon despite widespread social and political opposition.
Harman is a brilliant engineer and visionary working in an era dominated by religious fundamentalism and anti-scientific sentiment. In 1973, he plans to launch the rocket Prometheus to the Moon, facing denunciation from newspapers and opposition from powerful evangelist Otis Eldredge. Despite pressure from the head of his research institute and public hostility, Harman proceeds with the project. The initial launch is sabotaged by Eldredge’s follower Shelton, causing an explosion that kills 28 people. Surviving the attempt, Harman is smuggled from the hospital where he recuperates and begins preparations for a second rocket, New Prometheus, working with a small team of trusted engineers. In 1978, he successfully launches on a free return trajectory around the Moon and lands near the Potomac River, announcing his achievement and establishing himself as a hero who overcame both social and political opposition to scientific progress.
Appearances[]
- Trends (1939)