Salvador Gil; Pablo Núñez; Silvia E. Calderón
Description:
AbstractIn this work we discuss classical geometrical models that allow us to estimate the distances from the Earth to theMoon, the Sun, and the diameters of the Sun and the Moon in relation to the Earth diameter. We also indicate how toobtain the distance from the Sun to the rest of the planets and the need of elliptical orbits for the planets. Our aim wasto answer the questions: How do we know this? Why do we support this idea? The experimental technique to carry outthese estimations makes use of digital images of eclipses available through Internet or taken with a digital cameraduring a lunar eclipse. The measured astronomical distances and sizes are consistent with best values obtained forthese magnitudes. This activity is accessible to beginner university students and High school students. The proposedtechnique illustrates a way of combining classical methods with modern technologies.