The 2017 total solar eclipse attracted massive attention, with approximately 200 million Americans within driving distance of its path. An estimated 7 million travelers joined 12 million others witnessing the eclipse. This event marked one of the largest human migrations for a natural phenomenon, enhanced by unprecedented social media coverage.
Tag: Astronomy
Astronomy Items
12-13 August 2017 – the Perseids
ForĀ revised post containing more tips on how to view the Perseids see The Perseids 2021. Anyone who is disappointed that they will be missing the total eclipse can console themselves with another astronomical event - providing that they live in the northern hemisphere, that the weather is favourable (no clouds, please) and that they… Continue reading 12-13 August 2017 – the Perseids
Solar Eclipse 21 August 2017
On August 21, 2017, a total solar eclipse captivated millions across a narrow path in the US, the first since 1979. Although eclipses occur every 18 months globally, total eclipses are rare for any specific location. Factors like the Moon's orbit affect visibility and duration.
Voyager 40th anniversary
Nearly 40 years ago, on 20 August 1977, the Voyager 2 space probe was launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on a mission to study the Solar System's four outermost planets. It was followed 15 days later by the launch of an identical spacecraft, Voyager 1. The Voyager spacecraft -Image from NASA Although Voyager 1 was… Continue reading Voyager 40th anniversary
The zoo hypothesis
This post is about the zoo hypothesis, a term coinedĀ in 1973 by the astronomer John Ball, but the idea had been in existence for decades before then. Ā The zoo hypothesis states that there are many advanced and intelligent alienĀ civilisationsĀ out there, but they hideĀ their existence from us so that they they do not interfere with our… Continue reading The zoo hypothesis
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