The Forgotten Mathematician: How Elizabeth Williams Helped Discover Pluto

In 1930, astronomer Clyde Tombaugh discovered what was then known as the ninth planet in the solar system, Pluto. However, this monumental discovery was made possible by the complex calculations of a female mathematician, Elizabeth Williams, who has been largely forgotten in history. This article sheds light on Williams' crucial role in Pluto's discovery and her impact on the field of astronomy.

Elizabeth Williams: The Unsung Hero

Elizabeth Williams worked for the renowned astronomer Sir Percival Lowell, who first theorized the existence of a ninth planet. Lowell's calculations were based on his observations of the motions of Uranus and Neptune, which spurred the search for a more distant celestial body affecting their orbits.

As a "human calculator," Williams performed the intricate mathematical steps required by astronomers by hand. Her calculations pinpointed the exact location where the elusive planet was to be found. Though Lowell did not discover Pluto himself, his successor Clyde Tombaugh relied heavily on Williams' calculations to finally find the planet.

A Life of Challenges and Achievements

Despite her significant contributions, Elizabeth Williams faced several challenges throughout her career. She was fired by Sir Percival Lowell's widow in 1922 for being a married woman, and later in life, she was widowed and died in poverty. However, her talent and dedication to her work never wavered. She was ambidextrous and could write in both cursive and block letters simultaneously using her right and left hands.

Catherine Clark, a doctoral candidate in astronomy, presented a talk on Williams' life and work at the 235th meeting of the American Astronomical Society. She emphasized the importance of understanding the role of women in the field of astronomy, especially those who contributed significantly to scientific breakthroughs.

The Legacy of Elizabeth Williams

Today, astronomers rely on modern computers for complex orbital calculations, but the story of Elizabeth Williams serves as a reminder of the hard work and dedication of the women who made significant contributions to the field in the past. Their efforts laid the foundation for today's advancements in the field of astronomy, and their stories must not be forgotten.

In conclusion, Elizabeth Williams' crucial role in the discovery of Pluto is a testament to her immense talent and dedication to the field of astronomy. As we celebrate the achievements of female scientists throughout history, let us also remember the unsung heroes like Williams, whose work continues to inspire future generations.

You Might Also Like :