Edwin Hubble

The astronomer who proved the existence of galaxies beyond the Milky Way and discovered the expansion of the universe.

Edwin Hubble (1889–1953) fundamentally altered humanity’s understanding of the cosmos. Using the Hooker Telescope at Mount Wilson Observatory in the 1920s, Hubble identified Cepheid variable stars in the Andromeda Nebula, proving it was a separate galaxy—shattering the long-held belief that the Milky Way constituted the entire universe.

Hubble’s subsequent discovery of redshift in galaxy light spectra led to Hubble’s Law, demonstrating that galaxies are moving away from each other and the universe is expanding. This laid the groundwork for the Big Bang Theory, revolutionizing cosmology. The Hubble Space Telescope, named in his honor, continues to unveil cosmic mysteries.

Beyond science, Hubble bridged art and astronomy, often citing poetry’s influence on his work. His interdisciplinary approach inspired later scientists like Carl Sagan. Today, institutions like the Carnegie Institution preserve his legacy, ensuring his discoveries remain central to astronomical research.