TED Talks Daily The most detailed map of galaxies, black holes and stars ever made | Juna Kollmeier
Jun 7, 2019
Juna Kollmeier, a theoretical astrophysicist, leads groundbreaking efforts to create intricate 3-D maps of the universe using data from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. She discusses the monumental task of cataloging millions of stars, black holes, and galaxies. Kollmeier emphasizes the power of teamwork and innovative technology in this project. With a lofty goal of mapping every large galaxy by 2060, she inspires listeners about humanity's role in cosmic exploration, challenging us to embrace curiosity and participate in this adventure.
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From Fear to Curiosity
- Juna Kollmeier's childhood fear of the dark transformed into a curiosity about the universe.
- This curiosity reflects humanity's enduring fascination with understanding the cosmos.
Mapping the Sky
- Mapping the sky requires three elements: light-emitting objects, telescopes to collect light, and instruments to interpret it.
- This process, from basic to complex, is fundamental to astronomical discovery.
Brahe and Kepler's Star Mapping
- Tycho Brahe and Johannes Kepler meticulously mapped 1,000 stars over 30 years.
- Their work advanced astronomy and revealed how planets orbit the sun.