What does a sunk Swedish galleon teach us about the perils of ignoring science? | Elizabeth Finkel

As scientific institutions and truths come under attack in the US, how well protected is Australia against the assault on science and facts?

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The light afternoon breeze barely ruffled the sails of the Vasa as it glided out of Stockholm harbour for its maiden voyage on 10 August 1628. With its high stern emblazoned by a gilded coat of arms, carvings of mythical figures and an extraordinary second gun deck, the new flagship for King Gustav's war against Poland dazzled the cheering crowd. Some 1300 metres into the harbour, a brisk wind caught the sails. The Vasa heeled over and sank.

It was the second gun deck that contributed to its downfall. King Gustav had demanded it against the advice of the shipbuilders. The Vasa's raised centre of gravity could not hold.