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"Changing Views of Earth" is an article that discusses how humans' perception of the Earth has evolved over time. The article provides an overview of important milestones in the history of Earth observation, starting with the earliest known representations of the Earth and ending with the development of modern satellite technology.
The article notes that early humans likely had a limited understanding of the Earth's shape and size. However, ancient civilizations, such as the Greeks and Chinese, made significant contributions to our understanding of the Earth's shape and the location of its landmasses. The article discusses how maps from this period used a range of techniques, including celestial observations and measurements of the Earth's curvature, to provide accurate depictions of the world.
During the Renaissance, there was a renewed interest in studying the Earth's physical properties. The article notes that the work of scientists such as Galileo and Newton helped to establish the idea that the Earth was a sphere, and that its physical properties could be measured and analyzed.
The article also highlights the role of technological advancements in our evolving understanding of the Earth. The development of photography and aerial observation in the 19th and 20th centuries allowed scientists to capture detailed images of the Earth's surface, while the launch of the first artificial satellite, Sputnik 1, in 1957, marked the beginning of the modern era of Earth observation. Today, satellites play a crucial role in a range of applications, from weather forecasting to tracking changes in the Earth's climate.
Overall, "Changing Views of Earth" provides a fascinating overview of how our understanding of the Earth has developed over time, from the earliest maps to the sophisticated satellite technology used today.