Gates S. Proving Einstein Right...2019

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A thrilling adventure story chronicling the perilous journey of the scientists who set out to prove the theory of relativity – the results of which catapulted Albert Einstein to fame and forever changed our understanding of the universe.
In 1911, a relatively unknown physicist named Albert Einstein published his preliminary theory of gravity. But it hadn’t been tested. To do that, he needed a photograph of starlight as it passed the sun during a total solar eclipse. So began a nearly decade-long quest by seven determined astronomers from observatories in four countries, who traveled the world during five eclipses to capture the elusive sight. Over the years, they faced thunderstorms, the ravages of a world war, lost equipment, and local superstitions. Finally, in May of 1919, British expeditions to northern Brazil and the island of Príncipe managed to photograph the stars, confirming Einstein’s theory.
At its heart, this is a story of frustration, faith, and ultimate victory – and of the scientists whose efforts helped build the framework for the big bang theory, catapulted Einstein to international fame, and shook the foundation of physics.
Map of A World of Eclipses: The Paths of Totality
Prologue
A path made of magic. The First Expeditions
Einstein’s visionary years. Thought Experiments and a Streetcar Ride
The two Eclipses of 1912. The First Attempt: Is Einstein Right?
Einstein’s entreaty. Astronomers to the Challenge
The 1914 Eclipse. The Second Attempt: A Path of Fire
A magic carpet made of space-time. The British Take Interest: Science Goes to War
Unriddling the Universe. The British Get Ready: The Americans Persevere
The RMS Anselm sets sail. A Cocoa Plantation and a Horse Jockey Club
Príncipe and Sobral. In Colonialism’s Shadow: The Teams Prepare
«Through cloud, hopeful». May 29, 1919: Does Light Have Weight?
Greek drama. Searching the Stars: An Answer in the Hyades
The search for accuracy. A New Universe: The Press Juggernaut
Epilogue
Men made on dreams
Photos
Acknowledgments