The Phonautograph and Precursors to Edison's Phonograph. An 1859 Koenig phonautograph. While Thomas Edison is rightly credited with the invention of the cylinder phonograph and the means of playing back sound, his ideas were clearly influenced by numerous others who preceded him.
itâs best time to climb El Capitan or Raft along the Merced River. Also, spring if best time to see the Yosemite Falls in all their glory, âwhen melting snow fills the streams with volume. Yosemite is one of the best places in the US to observe the planets, stars, and galaxies.
It's long, steep at the beginning and end, and more dangerous than most Yosemite hikes. It's probably the most difficult of all Yosemite day hikes. On the traditional 1 to 10 scale, this one rates an 11. Insanity Factor: 9 out of 10. Wait 'til you get to the cables, and you'll see. Best Time to Visit: You can't climb Half Dome unless the cables are up, which is generally from mid-May or early June through Columbus Day weekend in October. The waterfalls will be better the earlier in the year you go. Avoid Half Dome on days when there are thunder clouds in the area - it's not worth the risk.