National STEM/STEAM Day

World Radiography Day is observed annually on November 8, marking the day X-rays were discovered by Professor Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen in 1895. X-rays have become a crucial tool in medical diagnostics, allowing doctors to detect diseases and conditions at an early stage—quickly, painlessly, efficiently, and accurately.

History

Roentgen was conducting research in his laboratory at the University of Würzburg when he noticed a special glow from crystals near his device. After evacuating the air and applying high voltage, a fluorescent glow appeared. Roentgen covered the tube with dark paper and observed that objects a few feet away emitted an unusual green light. This led to the discovery of a new type of rays—X-rays—which can pass through various obstacles and cast shadows of solid objects.

Interesting Facts

• Roentgen determined that X-rays freely pass through human tissue, but cannot pass through bone or metal. This was demonstrated in the famous image of his wife’s hand, which clearly showed her bones and the ring on her finger.
• The medical community quickly embraced the discovery, with many researchers switching their focus to X-rays.
• Radiographs began to be used within a month of the discovery. During wartime, X-rays were used on the battlefield to study injuries.
• X-rays remain the best method for early diagnosis of tuberculosis, as doctors can clearly see areas of concern in the image.
• Roentgen did not patent his invention, wanting it to be freely available to physicians worldwide.

How to Take Part

Get an X-ray screening as a preventive health measure—it’s the best way to catch many diseases early. Don’t wait for symptoms or pain. Learn about the work of radiographers and radiologists, the protective equipment they use, and the technology involved. Interestingly, when X-rays were first discovered, there was no protection, as the harmful effects of radiation were not yet understood.

When is World Radiography Day in 2025?

World Radiography Day is observed on November 8 each year.

Observations