Ibn al-Haytham

Medieval Arab polymath who revolutionized optics and established the scientific method

Known in Europe as Alhazen, Ibn al-Haytham (965–1040) authored the 'Book of Optics' which correctly explained vision through light reflection – overturning Greek theories. His experimental approach laid foundations for modern science, influencing Roger Bacon and Kepler.

Placed under house arrest in Cairo for failing to regulate Nile floods, he conducted groundbreaking research in camera obscura and refraction. His works covered mathematics (solving Alhazen's problem), astronomy critique of Ptolemy, and early psychology of visual perception.

UNESCO's 2015 International Year of Light celebrated his 1,000-year legacy. The 1001 Inventions exhibit popularized his contributions. Though less famous than Western scientists, al-Haytham's empirical rigor shaped the Renaissance's scientific revolution.