1912 Spectra of Galaxies

The 1912 spectra of galaxies refers to the analysis of light from galaxies to understand their composition and motion. Spectroscopy splits the galaxy’s light into a spectrum, revealing characteristic lines that identify elements like hydrogen and oxygen. By measuring shifts in these lines, scientists determine how fast a galaxy is moving toward or away from us—a phenomenon called redshift or blueshift. This work provided early evidence that galaxies are moving through space and helped shape our understanding of the universe's expansion. Spectroscopic studies are fundamental tools for astronomers to learn about the structure, composition, and dynamics of galaxies.