In this episode of Startalk Radio, host Neil deGrasse Tyson interviews Joe Rao, a meteorologist and associate at the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History. They discuss the most famous eclipse in history and its impact on our understanding of space and time. Joe Rao, who has witnessed more eclipses than anyone else on earth, shares his experiences and insights into these celestial events.
Solar eclipses are more common than people think, occurring every couple of years. The general theory of relativity, formulated by Einstein in 1915, revolutionized our understanding of space and time. It predicted that light passing by the sun would be bent due to the curvature of space and time. This prediction was confirmed during the 1919 eclipse when Sir Arthur Eddington observed that the positions of stars had shifted. Eclipses provide scientists with unique opportunities to study and discover new phenomena in the universe.
The 1919 eclipse holds great significance in the field of physics. Astronomers searched for the planet Vulcan, which was believed to be affecting Mercury’s orbit, during the eclipse but it was never found. However, this eclipse confirmed Eddington’s theory about the curvature of space and time. Eddington also suggested that heavy elements may be formed in the centers of stars, a theory later confirmed by the development of quantum physics.
Witnessing a total eclipse is a truly captivating experience. Many people become addicted to chasing eclipses after seeing their first one. The gradual darkening of the sky before totality, the saffron-colored horizon, and the navy blue sky above create a surreal atmosphere. Shadow bands, flickering light and dark waves, add to the spectacle. Total solar eclipses have been observed to affect wildlife behavior, providing researchers with valuable insights.
Eclipses have fascinated and influenced cultures throughout history. Ancient civilizations interpreted eclipses through stories and myths. In 585 AD, a total eclipse stopped a battle and resulted in a truce between warring factions in the Middle East. China’s meticulous records of celestial events provide valuable historical insights into the night sky.
Eclipses are not only awe-inspiring celestial events but also significant in advancing our understanding of the universe. From confirming Einstein’s theory of relativity to providing unique opportunities for scientific study, eclipses continue to captivate and inspire. Whether you’re a seasoned eclipse chaser or a curious observer, witnessing a total solar eclipse is an experience like no other.