On this day in history,...
...in 1978, the book Introductory Dynamical Oceanography by Stephen Pond and George L. Pickard was first published by Pergamon Press. This date was derived from a detailed examination of the Library of Congress MARC record, where the fixed-length data elements suggest February 14, 1978, as a significant date.

This text has since become a cornerstone in the field of physical oceanography. It provides a thorough exploration of ocean dynamics, blending analytical rigor with conceptual clarity. The book is notably enhanced by detailed and informative graphics that help illustrate complex processes in ocean circulation, waves, and other dynamical phenomena.
Compared to earlier introductory texts, Introductory Dynamical Oceanography is more advanced, making it particularly suited for students with prior knowledge of basic oceanographic principles. It serves as an essential reference for both students and professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of dynamical ocean processes. The second edition, published in 1983, further refined and expanded upon the original work, gaining widespread recognition.
This book continues to shape the education of oceanographers and remains a significant contribution to the study of the Earth's oceans.
Sources
- Pond, Stephen, and Pickard, George L. Introductory Dynamical Oceanography. Pergamon Press, 1978.
- Library of Congress Catalog Record: https://lccn.loc.gov/77030705 (MARC data analysis)