Röntgen's X-ray discovery is announced and the first X-ray photographs follow, January 1896

Background. Röntgen discovered X-rays in November 1895 while experimenting with vacuum tubes at the University of Würzburg. He named the phenomenon X-radiation to signify an unknown type of radiation. His initial report was submitted to the Physical-Medical Society journal in December 1895, establishing the foundation for the subsequent public announcement and scientific reception in early 1896.

Public Announcement. The discovery was formally published on 28 December 1895. On 5 January 1896, an Austrian newspaper reported Röntgen's finding of a new type of radiation. This media coverage marked the transition from private laboratory investigation to public scientific awareness, prompting immediate interest among physicians and researchers across Europe.

Early Photographic Applications. Following the announcement, researchers began testing the rays' capabilities. In January 1896, Frank Austin at Dartmouth College identified that only the Puluj tube produced X-rays. The first clinical use occurred on 11 January 1896 in Birmingham, where John Hall-Edwards radiographed a needle in a patient's hand, demonstrating practical medical potential.