In 1929, astronomer Edwin Hubble made a groundbreaking observation from a mountaintop observatory in southern California. He found that the further a galaxy is from us, the faster it appears to be receding into space. This discovery revolutionized our understanding of the universe and demonstrated a relationship between the speed of cosmic objects and their distance from Earth.
Hubble’s work built upon earlier research by scientists such as Henrietta Swan Leavitt, who discovered a direct relationship between the luminosity and pulsation period of Cepheid variables. By using these “standard candles” to calculate distances, Hubble determined that the Andromeda galaxy was nearly 1 million light-years away.
Hubble also made significant contributions to understanding the expansion of the universe by analyzing the “redshifting” of nebulae wavelengths. This phenomenon revealed that objects further away in space move faster than those closer to us. His data demonstrated a linear correlation between distances and velocities, now known as the Hubble constant.
Although Hubble’s work has been refined over time, his legacy remains monumental. He inspired generations of astronomers and enabled them to make groundbreaking discoveries about the universe. The Hubble Space Telescope, launched in 1990, continues to provide iconic images of the cosmos, cementing Hubble’s place as one of the most influential scientists in history.
Hubble’s impact extends beyond astronomy, as his work has contributed to our understanding of the age and expansion rate of the universe. His legacy serves as a testament to the power of scientific inquiry and the importance of continued exploration and discovery.
Source: https://www.history.com/news/universe-expanding-edwin-hubble