Solarmax
Solarmax *** (Not Rated)
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Reviewed By George O. Singleton
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Director: John Weiley
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30 Second Bottom Line: Learn the history of the sun from centuries past to the present day by way of stunning live photography.
Story Line: We learn about early astronomical assumptions with familiar names such as Gallilelo. He was right in that the Earth was not the center of the universe but rather one of a family of planets that revolved around the sun. This was so controversial that he decided to keep quiet so that he would not literally be tortured by the ruling classes.
Even before the better-known astronomers gained worldwide fame, people in Ireland had built a room that picks up the light and directs it on the winter solstices. This is the beginning of the New Year and the shortest day in the year. This building has the oldest room on earth, having been there longer than the pyramids.
After we review the past, we jet into the present with our ability to uses powerful telescopes both on earth and in space. From space, without the Earth's atmosphere, we are able to see a vibrant sun that is so full of energy that the term "amazing" is an understatement.
Tell Me More About It: We all know that the sun is 93 million miles away. It's made up mostly of hydrogen and helium but also contains carbon and other elements. Solarmaximum means space storms and every 11 years the north and south poles of the sun reverses causing an event called the solarmax. Once every 100 years, there is a super flare, which creates more energy in one second than the Earth uses in a million years.
As we learn more about the earth and the planets and stars around us, we begin to appreciate the value of this special place we live called Earth. If only we can learn to use our resources with a balance that does not destroy the future, possibly this will really be the Promised Land for todays and future generations.
George O. Singleton © 2001
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