Bending of Light: Other Observations Beyond Eddington

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the bending of light, specifically exploring observations beyond the famous Eddington experiment of 1919. Participants inquire about additional evidence for light bending, particularly in relation to general relativity, and discuss related phenomena such as gravitational lensing and the concept of a photon sphere.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks for observations of light bending beyond Eddington's work, emphasizing its significance as proof of general relativity.
  • Another participant recalls a Hubble telescope image demonstrating gravitational lensing, suggesting it as an example of light bending.
  • It is noted that there have been multiple observations of gravitational lensing since 1919, indicating ongoing research in this area.
  • A question is posed about the possibility of light being bent into an orbit around a massive object, which is affirmed by another participant who mentions the photon sphere.
  • A participant expresses appreciation for learning the term "photon sphere," indicating interest in further exploration of the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express curiosity about various observations related to light bending, with some affirming the existence of additional evidence. However, the discussion includes multiple inquiries and perspectives, indicating that no consensus has been reached regarding the extent of observations beyond Eddington.

Contextual Notes

Some claims about gravitational lensing and the photon sphere are made without detailed references or specific examples, leaving certain assumptions and definitions potentially unresolved.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to those exploring general relativity, gravitational lensing, and the behavior of light in strong gravitational fields.

spidey
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Are there other observations for the bending of light apart from Eddington 1919...i want to know that whether bending of light is observed by other astronomers other than Eddington since this is a vital proof of general relativity...
 
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I think I saw once a Hubble telescope pic of the gravitational lens effect that resulted in a double image of something or another. Maybe someone knows what I am referring to.
 
There have been a number of such observations since 1919 including, as Helios says, observations of "gravitational lensing" of stars.
 
spidey said:
Are there other observations for the bending of light apart from Eddington 1919...i want to know that whether bending of light is observed by other astronomers other than Eddington since this is a vital proof of general relativity...

See here
 
Thank you..
 
If light ( photons ) can be bent in their path , Is it possible for light to be bent into and orbit about a very massive object?
 
Alfi said:
If light ( photons ) can be bent in their path , Is it possible for light to be bent into and orbit about a very massive object?
Yes. Such an orbit resides on what is known as the photon sphere.

Pete
 
photon sphere.

ah ...it helps so much to know what something is called. Now I can read up on the topic.

Thanks
 

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