Herbert Hall Turner: The Astronomer Who Named Pluto and Defined the Parsec
In the annals of scientific history, few figures bridge the gap between classical observation and modern cosmic measurement as effectively as Herbert Hall Turner. A distinguished British astronomer and seismologist, Turner's influence stretched from the precise measurement of tides to the very naming of the ninth planet, Pluto. His career was marked by a relentless pursuit of accuracy, whether studying the movement of the stars or the shifting of the Earth's crust.
Key Facts
- Fields of Study: Astronomy and Seismology.
- Major Contribution: Credited with coining the term parsec.
- Seismology Milestone: Credited with the discovery of deep focus earthquakes.
- Pluto Connection: Facilitated the official naming of the planet Pluto.
- Highest Honor: Recipient of the Bruce Medal in 1927.
- Academic Leadership: Served as the Savilian Professor of Astronomy at Oxford University for 37 years.
Early Life and Academic Excellence
Born on 13 August 1861, in Leeds, England, Herbert Hall Turner demonstrated early mathematical brilliance. His academic journey took him through Leeds Modern School, Clifton College in Bristol, and eventually to Trinity College, Cambridge. His performance in higher education was exemplary; he earned a 1st Class in Mathematics and Physics from the University of London and achieved the distinction of Second Wrangler at Cambridge in 1882.
Turner's professional ascent began in 1884 when he accepted the role of Chief Assistant at the Royal Greenwich Observatory. During his nine-year tenure there, he contributed significantly to the field through various research papers, including studies on stellar photography and the correction of equilibrium theory for tides.
A Distinguished Career in Astronomy and Seismology
In 1893, Turner transitioned to Oxford University, where he assumed the prestigious position of Savilian Professor of Astronomy and Director of the Radcliffe Observatory. He held these roles for nearly four decades until his death in 1930. His expertise was not limited to the heavens; he was also a pioneer in seismology, specifically credited with the discovery of deep focus earthquakes—seismic events occurring well below the Earth's surface.
Beyond his observational work, Turner left a lasting linguistic mark on science by coining the word parsec, a unit of distance used in astronomy to describe the vast gaps between stars. His ability to communicate complex scientific concepts was further evidenced by his 1913 and 1915 Royal Institution Christmas Lectures, titled "A Voyage in Space and Wireless Messages from the Stars."
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Born | 13 August 1861, Leeds, England |
| Died | 20 August 1930, Stockholm, Sweden |
| Primary Roles | Savilian Professor of Astronomy; Director of Radcliffe Observatory |
| Major Award | Bruce Medal (1927) |
| Scientific Legacy | Discovery of deep focus earthquakes; coining of "parsec" |
The Naming of Pluto
One of the most charming anecdotes in astronomical history occurred shortly before Turner's death. In early 1930, the Lowell Observatory announced the discovery of a new planet. An eleven-year-old Oxford schoolgirl named Venetia Burney proposed the name "Pluto" to her grandfather, Falconer Madan. Madan passed this suggestion to Turner, who then cabled the name to colleagues at the Lowell Observatory. On 24 March 1930, the name Pluto was officially adopted.
Legacy and Honors
Turner's contributions were recognized globally. He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1897 and received the Bruce Medal in 1927. His name lives on in the cosmos through the crater Turner on the Moon and the asteroid 1186 Turnera. He also co-edited the first official history of the Royal Astronomical Society, titled History of the Royal Astronomical Society 1820–1920.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a parsec?
A parsec is a unit of distance used in astronomy. Herbert Hall Turner is credited with coining the term to describe these vast interstellar distances.
How did Turner contribute to seismology?
Turner is credited with the discovery of deep focus earthquakes, which are seismic events that originate deep within the Earth's interior.
Who suggested the name Pluto?
The name Pluto was suggested by Venetia Burney, an eleven-year-old schoolgirl from Oxford, and communicated to the scientific community via Herbert Hall Turner.
Where can you find a portrait of Herbert Hall Turner?
A portrait of Turner, painted by Catharine Dodgson, is held at New College, Oxford.
What was Turner's most significant academic appointment?
His most prominent role was serving as the Savilian Professor of Astronomy at Oxford University, a position he held for 37 years.