Schiaparellis map of Mars, 1879
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Schiaparellis map of Mars, 1879
Schiaparellis map of Mars. This drawing of the southern (left) and northern (right) hemipsheres of Mars was made in 1879 by the Italian astronomer Giovanni Schiaparelli (1835-1910). He named the seas and continents of Mars, and called the straight surface features channels (mistranslated as canals). He also noticed that the patterns on the surface changed with the Martian seasons. He wrongly assumed this to be due to seasonal changes in vegetation. It is now known that Mars is swept by powerful dust storms which alter the surface features. The accompanying text is in German
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Media ID 6328635
© DETLEV VAN RAVENSWAAY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1870s 1879 Canal Canals Continents Diagram Discovery Drawing Geographical Features German Text Giovanni Schiaparelli Globe Hemisphere Hemispheres Highlands Ice Cap Italian Lowlands Mapped Mars Martian Named Names North Northern Hemisphere Observation Observations Planetary Science Polar Region Pole Poles Regions Seas Solar System South Southern Hemisphere German Language
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases Schiaparelli's map of Mars, a groundbreaking illustration created by the Italian astronomer Giovanni Schiaparelli in 1879. Divided into two hemispheres, the southern and northern regions of Mars are meticulously depicted with intricate detail. Schiaparelli bestowed names upon the seas and continents of this enigmatic planet, while also labeling the straight surface features as "canals" although they were later mistranslated. Notably, Schiaparelli observed that these surface patterns underwent transformations corresponding to Martian seasons. However, his assumption that vegetation caused these changes was proven incorrect over time. We now understand that powerful dust storms sweep across Mars, altering its landscape dramatically. The accompanying text on this historical artifact is written in German, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this remarkable piece. This artwork serves as a testament to both scientific discovery and artistic expression from the late 19th century. As we delve into this mesmerizing image, we witness a duo of hemispheres revealing their secrets: polar ice caps glistening at each pole; highlands and lowlands forming distinct geographical features; canals traversing vast regions; and continents waiting to be explored further. It transports us back to an era when our understanding of planets beyond Earth was still in its infancy. With its rich history and invaluable insights into early observations of Mars, this print offers us a glimpse into humanity's relentless pursuit of knowledge about our celestial neighbors within the vastness of our solar system.
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