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1919 solar eclipse
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1919 solar eclipse
^B1919 solar eclipse. Image 1 of 3.^b This set of images, taken by the British astronomer Arthur Eddington (1882-1944), confirmed Einsteins theory of general relativity. The stars near the Sun appear slightly shifted because their light is curved by its gravitational field. This shift is only noticeable during a solar eclipse as at other times the Suns brightness obscures the stars. This is a total solar eclipse, when the moon fits over the Sun so only its corona (atmosphere) is visible. Image taken from Principe Island, Gulf of Guinea, on 29 May 1919. For a sequence of the eclipse see R506/416-R506/418
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Media ID 19109687
© ROYAL ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1900s Astrophysical Astrophysics Corona Cosmology Eclipsing Einstein Gravitational Field Gravity Moon Sequence Shift Solar Eclipse Solar System Star Stars Total Eclipse Totality Eddington Gulf Of Guinea Shifted
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This print captures a momentous event in scientific history - the 1919 solar eclipse. Taken by renowned British astronomer Arthur Eddington, this image set played a crucial role in confirming Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity. The photograph showcases the stunning phenomenon of a total solar eclipse, where the moon perfectly aligns with the Sun, revealing only its ethereal corona. What makes this image truly remarkable is that it unveils how the gravitational field of our star bends and curves light from surrounding stars. During an eclipse, when the Sun's brilliance is momentarily dimmed, these shifted stars become visible to us. This discovery was instrumental in validating Einstein's groundbreaking theory. The photo was captured on May 29th, 1919, from Principe Island in the Gulf of Guinea. Its monochrome composition adds an air of historical significance and highlights its astronomical nature. As we gaze upon this snapshot frozen in time, we are transported back to an era when astrophysics and cosmology were rapidly evolving fields. This image serves as a testament to human curiosity and scientific exploration. It reminds us that through meticulous observation and analysis, we can unravel profound mysteries about our universe. The legacy of Eddington's work lives on through this extraordinary photograph held within the archives of the Royal Astronomical Society/Science Photo Library – forever capturing a pivotal moment where science triumphed over convention.
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