How did Jonathan Swift predict mars moon speeds?

Thread starter Ian_Brooks
Start date Jun 24, 2009
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Mars Moon

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Jonathan Swift accurately described the two moons of Mars, Phobos and Deimos, in his work "Gulliver's Travels," detailing their sizes and rotational speeds over a century before their actual discovery. The discussion raises questions about how Swift could have predicted such astronomical details without modern technology. Some speculate that his knowledge may have stemmed from advanced mathematical theories or insights into celestial mechanics. The accuracy of Swift's descriptions continues to intrigue scholars and enthusiasts alike. This remarkable foresight highlights the intersection of literature and science in understanding the cosmos.

Jun 24, 2009

Ian_Brooks

In Gulliver's Travels Jonathan Swift described the two moons of Mars, Phobos and Deimos, giving their exact size and speeds of rotation. He did this more than 100 years before either moon was discovered.

granted this is true - how would one even predict such a thing?

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Jun 24, 2009

mgb_phys

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http://www.daviddarling.info/encyclopedia/S/Swift.html

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