Validation of Einstein’s General Relativity

Celebrating the Centennial of an Australian Scientific Achievement

Presented by the School of Physics @ The University of Melbourne and the Royal Society of Victoria

A map of Australia published in The Argus newspaper, showing the eclipse track on September 21, 1922

In 1922, the path of a total solar eclipse crossed the central part of Australia, presenting the first opportunity to validate Eddington’s claims that Einstein’s Theory of General Relativity was a ‘representation of nature’. Expeditions were sent from different states in Australia to observe the eclipse, involving both Australian and international scientists. The scientific results were a resounding confirmation of Einstein’s theory.

A distinguished panel will present details of the events surrounding the eclipse in 1922: the expeditions, the scientific data and the implications. Some of the most recent scientific results that directly reflect this new understanding of the nature of gravity will also be presented.

The panel will include Professors David Jamieson and Rachel Webster, and Emeritus Professor Brian Finlayson.

5.30PM refreshments at foyer outside B117 Glyn Davis Building (133 – Melbourne School of Design), followed by a panel presentation and discussion at 6PM. Registrations essential, using the window below.

Registrations: