See Proofs that the Earth is Spherical

See Proofs that the Earth is Spherical

The Earth is spherical, and there is overwhelming evidence to support this fact. 

From simple observations to complex scientific experiments, we have known for centuries that our planet is not flat.

In this article, we will explore some of the most compelling proofs that the Earth is spherical.

Proof 1: Ships disappear hull first over the horizon

If the Earth were flat, we would be able to see entire ships disappear over the horizon. However, what we actually see is that ships disappear hull first, followed by the superstructure. This is because the Earth curves away from us as we move away from the shore.

This can be easily observed by standing on a beach or cliff and watching a ship sail away. As the ship gets further away, it will appear to shrink and sink lower into the sea. Eventually, only the mast and sails will be visible, and then the ship will disappear completely.

Proof 2: Lunar eclipses

During a lunar eclipse, the Earth casts a shadow on the Moon. This shadow is always curved, even when the Moon is at its closest point to the Earth. If the Earth were flat, the shadow would be a straight line.

The curved shadow of the Earth on the Moon is another clear indication that our planet is spherical.

Proof 3: The Earth casts a round shadow on the Moon

During a lunar eclipse, the Earth casts a round shadow on the Moon. This is because the Earth is a sphere. If the Earth were flat, it would cast a rectangular shadow on the Moon.

Proof 4: The stars and planets are different in different hemispheres

If the Earth were flat, we would see the same stars and planets in the sky, no matter where we were on Earth. However, we actually see different stars and planets in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. This is because the Earth is a sphere and we are looking at different parts of the sky.

For example, the Southern Cross constellation is only visible in the Southern Hemisphere. The North Star is only visible in the Northern Hemisphere.

Proof 5: Photographs of the Earth from space

We have had photographic evidence that the Earth is spherical for over 50 years. The first photographs of the Earth from space were taken by the Apollo astronauts in the 1960s.

Since then, we have taken many more photographs of the Earth from space, and they all show that our planet is a sphere.

Proof 6: Circumnavigation

People have circumnavigated the Earth, meaning they have traveled all the way around it. This would not be possible if the Earth were flat.

The first person to circumnavigate the Earth was Ferdinand Magellan in the early 16th century. Magellan's crew set sail from Spain in 1519 and returned to Spain in 1522, having completed a full journey around the world.

Proof 7: The Earth's gravity is evenly distributed

If the Earth were flat, the Earth's gravity would not be evenly distributed. People on the edges of the flat Earth would experience much less gravity than people in the center.

However, we know that the Earth's gravity is evenly distributed because people all over the world weigh the same amount, regardless of where they are located.

Proof 8: The Earth's magnetic field

The Earth has a magnetic field, which is what causes compasses to work. 

The Earth's magnetic field is caused by the Earth's spinning core.

If the Earth were flat, the Earth's magnetic field would be very different. However, the Earth's magnetic field is the same all over the world, which is another indication that the Earth is a sphere.

Proof 9: The Earth's atmosphere

The Earth has an atmosphere, which is a layer of gases that surrounds the planet. The Earth's atmosphere is held in place by the Earth's gravity.

If the Earth were flat, the Earth's atmosphere would not be evenly distributed. The atmosphere would be much thicker in the center of the flat Earth and much thinner at the edges.

However, we know that the Earth's atmosphere is evenly distributed because people all over the world can breathe the same amount of air.

Proof 10: The Earth's seasons

The Earth has four seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter. The seasons are caused by the Earth's tilted axis and the Earth's orbit around the Sun.

If the Earth were flat, the Earth would not have seasons. The seasons are another clear indication that the Earth is a sphere.