Historical Events tagged with "vega"
Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.
Proposal of 'Pluto' as a Dwarf Planet Name
Vesto Slipher of Lowell Observatory proposed 'Pluto' as the name for a newly discovered dwarf planet in the 1930 Lowell Observatory Observation Circular. The proposition caught public attention, becoming widely adopted in astronomy and popular culture. The choice honored the Roman god of the underworld, reinforcing the mysterious nature of this distant celestial body. The name 'Pluto' was suggested after a poll among the staff at Lowell Observatory, which resonated with both scientific and mythological significance.
Continue ReadingInaugural Flight of the Lockheed Vega
The Lockheed Vega, a revolutionary aircraft, made its first flight in 1927 at the Lockheed factory in Burbank, California. Designed by the brilliant engineer Jack Northrop, the Vega became known for its innovative all-metal construction and speed capabilities. This aircraft was pivotal in setting a new standard in aviation design, combining sleek aesthetics with functional engineering. The initial flight showcased the potential for the Vega to excel in both commercial and racing applications, signaling a new era of air travel.
Continue ReadingFirst Photograph of a Star Beyond the Sun
The star Vega became the first star, apart from the Sun, to be successfully photographed. This groundbreaking achievement took place through the efforts of French photographer and astronomer Léon Foucault. Using a heliograph—a device designed to capture images using sunlight—Foucault was able to obtain an image of Vega, demonstrating the potential for photography to advance astronomical research. The image provided a new perspective on celestial bodies and showcased the intersection of photography and science in the 19th century.
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