Harlow Shapley shifted the scientific understanding of the Milky Way by utilizing Cepheid variable stars to calculate the galaxy's dimensions and the Sun's peripheral position within it. Born in 1885 in Nashville, Missouri, he rose from a self-taught background to become a central figure in American astronomy during the early twentieth century.
Academic Foundation
After graduating valedictorian from a condensed high school program, Shapley enrolled at the University of Missouri in 1907. He initially intended to study journalism but shifted his focus to astronomy when the journalism program was delayed. He later pursued graduate studies at Princeton University from 1911 to 1913 under the supervision of Henry Norris Russell, where he researched the period-luminosity relation of Cepheid variables.
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In April 1920, at the National Academy of Sciences in Washington, D.C., Shapley participated in the Great Debate against Heber D. Curtis. The discussion centered on the nature of nebulae and the scale of the universe. Shapley argued that spiral nebulae were internal components of the Milky Way. Though historical records indicate he provided a simplified address to secure a director position at Harvard, he later accepted the evidence for additional galaxies provided by Edwin Hubble.
Harvard Observatory and Research
Shapley served as the director of the Harvard College Observatory from 1921 to 1952. During this period, he expanded astronomical research, including the mapping of 76,000 galaxies between 1925 and 1932. He also mentored staff, including Cecilia Payne, who earned her doctorate at Radcliffe College while working at the observatory. In 1953, he proposed the liquid water belt theory, a precursor to modern habitable zone concepts.
Public Life and Activism
Beyond his academic roles, Shapley engaged in significant political activity. He helped establish the National Science Foundation and contributed to the formation of UNESCO. In 1946, he was subpoenaed by the House Committee on Un-American Activities due to his involvement with the Independent Citizens Committee of the Arts, Sciences and Professions. He vocalized strong opposition to the committee, describing their methods as reminiscent of the Gestapo.
Fast facts
- Born: 1885, Nashville, Missouri
- Died: 1972, Boulder
- Director, Harvard College Observatory: 1921-1952
- Henry Draper Medal recipient: 1926
- Rumford Prize recipient: 1933
- Gold Medal of the Royal Astronomical Society: 1934
- Bruce Medal recipient: 1939
- Burial site: North Cemetery
Questions readers ask
What was Shapley's stance on the existence of other galaxies?
He initially argued that spiral nebulae were contained within the Milky Way, but he eventually abandoned this view after Edwin Hubble provided evidence of Cepheid variables in the Andromeda galaxy.
What is the liquid water belt theory?
Proposed by Shapley in 1953, the theory suggests regions around stars where conditions allow for liquid water, a concept now known as the habitable zone.
Achievements
- Affiliated with Mount Wilson Observatory and Harvard College Observatory
- Educated at University of Missouri and Princeton University
- Worked as astronomer, university teacher and meteorologist
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