Tumble Science Podcast for Kids How Big is the Universe?
Aug 8, 2025
Dive into the incredible story of Henrietta Leavitt, the groundbreaking astronomer who helped measure the universe's vastness through her work on variable stars. Discover how her discoveries revolutionized astronomy and challenged societal norms for women in science. Hear about the Galaxy Zoo project, where citizens contribute to astronomical research, and explore humanity's ongoing fascination with galaxies beyond the Milky Way. Join in the excitement of scientific exploration and the journey of understanding our cosmic home!
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From College To Low-Paid Observatory Work
- Henrietta Leavitt worked as a low-paid
Photography Democratized Star Cataloging
- Photographic plates let astronomers analyze images away from telescopes and expanded access to astronomy work.
- This method enabled women to catalog stars without needing night-time telescope access.
Paid As 'Computers' At Harvard
- Henrietta and other women at Harvard were called "computers" and paid very little for detailed star cataloging.
- Henrietta made 30 cents an hour while doing meticulous coordinate and brightness work.