The Glass Universe

Discover the untold story of the brilliant women who revolutionized astronomy in Dava Sobel's captivating bestseller, *The Glass Universe*. This hardcover edition, published by Fourth Estate in 2017, unveils the hidden contributions of the "human computers" at the Harvard College Observatory during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Forget what you think you know about the history of astronomy this book will change your perspective. Dava Sobel, the acclaimed author of *Longitude* and *Galileo's Daughter*, masterfully brings to life the remarkable women who, despite facing societal limitations, made groundbreaking discoveries that shaped our understanding of the cosmos. These unsung heroines weren't just number crunchers; they were pioneers who meticulously analyzed glass photographic plates of the night sky, identifying stars, classifying their spectra, and ultimately redefining the field of astronomy. Imagine a world where women were largely excluded from scientific research. At the Harvard Observatory, however, they found an unexpected opportunity. Initially hired to perform calculations based on observations made by male astronomers, these women quickly proved their intellectual prowess. They tackled the painstaking task of examining thousands of glass plates, meticulously cataloging stars and identifying celestial patterns. Their work extended far beyond mere data entry; they developed innovative techniques for analyzing stellar spectra, leading to profound insights into the composition and evolution of stars. *The Glass Universe* delves into the lives and accomplishments of these extraordinary women, including Williamina Fleming, Annie Jump Cannon, Henrietta Swan Leavitt, and Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin. Fleming, a Scottish immigrant and former housemaid, rose through the ranks to become a leading astronomer, discovering hundreds of stars and nebulae. Cannon, renowned for her work on stellar classification, developed the Harvard Spectral Sequence, a system still used by astronomers today. Leavitt's groundbreaking discovery of the period-luminosity relationship in Cepheid variable stars provided a crucial tool for measuring distances in the universe, revolutionizing our understanding of its vast scale. Payne-Gaposchkin, though initially discouraged by the scientific establishment, ultimately proved that stars were primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, a finding that challenged prevailing theories. Sobel skillfully weaves together historical accounts, personal letters, and diary entries to create a vivid and engaging narrative. She reveals the challenges these women faced the prejudice, the limited opportunities, and the struggle for recognition while also celebrating their intellectual curiosity, their unwavering dedication, and their remarkable achievements. The book also sheds light on the social and cultural context of the time, exploring the evolving roles of women in science and society. More than just a biography, *The Glass Universe* is a testament to the power of collaboration, the importance of diversity in scientific inquiry, and the enduring legacy of these often-overlooked women who helped unlock the secrets of the stars. It is a compelling read for anyone interested in astronomy, history of science, women's studies, or simply a good story about overcoming adversity and achieving greatness. This book is an Observer Book of the Year and a #1 New York Times Bestseller. Pick up your copy of *The Glass Universe* and embark on a journey through the cosmos, guided by the brilliant minds of these extraordinary women.