Context:
Recently, Kodaikanal Solar Observatory celebrated its 125th birth anniversary.
Relevance:
Facts for Prelims
Dimensions of the Article:
- Solar Observatory: An Overview
- Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KoSO)
Solar Observatory: An Overview
Definition and Purpose
- A solar observatory is an institution or facility focused on observing and studying the Sun.
- Utilizes specialized telescopes and instruments to study phenomena on the Sun’s surface, atmosphere, and surrounding space.
Significance
- The Sun is the primary energy source for life on Earth; changes in its surface or surrounding areas can impact Earth’s atmosphere.
- Solar storms and flares can jeopardize satellite operations, power grids, and navigation systems.
- Solar observatories enable scientists to monitor and predict these events affecting Earth’s atmosphere.
Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KoSO)
Introduction and Location
- Owned and operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, established in 1899.
- Located on the southern tip of the Palani Hills in Tamil Nadu.
Notable Discoveries
- First detection of the Evershed effect in January 1909, which is the apparent radial flow of gas in the penumbra (outer region) of sunspots.
Historical Context and Establishment
- Motivated by the need to explore the connection between solar activity and monsoons, particularly after the Great Drought of 1875-1877 in India.
- During 1876-1878, concurrent multi-year droughts affected India, China, Egypt, Morocco, Ethiopia, southern Africa, Brazil, Colombia, and Venezuela, resulting in a global famine that claimed nearly 50 million lives.
- The Famine Commission recommended establishing a solar observatory for systematic solar observations.
- Charles Michie Smith was tasked with locating an appropriate site, choosing Kodaikanal for its clear skies, low humidity, and minimal fog.
Historical Predecessor: Madras Observatory
- Established by the British East India Company in Chennai in 1792, it was the first of its kind in the region.
- Recorded astronomical observations of the Sun, Moon, stars, and planets from 1812-1825.
- Merged with KoSO during the reorganization of Indian observatories in April 1899.
