School of Physics and Astronomy
The physics experience
By Ray Honeysett
Some of South America’s most famous symbols are those associated with astronomy. Both Incan and Aztec empires worshipped Sun and Moon deities, and so South America’s history is tied up with the night sky. Today, the lack of light pollution in many South American countries has been so valuable for astronomy that it has drawn the attention of modern day astronomers from around the world.
Continue reading “Astronomy in South America”
By Ray Honeysett
America is what we think of as being one of the main forces in astrophysics. It was America that won the Space Race, America that formed NASA and planted their flag onto the Moon’s surface. Space flight only accounts for a small slice of American astrophysics, however; before and since, North America has been responsible for much of our astrophysical knowledge, from the astronomers of historic Mexico to Edwin Hubble’s discovery that the Universe is larger than just the Milky Way.
Continue reading “Astronomy in North America”
By Ray Honeysett
The history of astronomy in Asia is rich and valuable to astronomers to this day. Observations made in 11th century China are used as evidence for phenomena we can still see in the sky. There have been many ingenious minds that have made breakthroughs in science in Asia. Mathematicians like Aryabhata and Brahmagupta may be unfamiliar names, but their discoveries are as important as any other scientists to have lived.
Continue reading “Astronomy in Asia”
