what are the contributions of astronomy?
http://library.thinkquest.org/29033/history/history.htm
http://casswww.ucsd.edu/archive/public/tutorial/History.html
Are some people really so lazy as to not to pick up a book or 'google' something?
Amazing!
Contributions to whom? When?
contributions to all of humanity up to right now.
Astronomy has made numerous contributions to our understanding of the universe and has had important practical applications as well. Some of the key contributions of astronomy include:
1. Understanding the origins of the universe: Through studying the cosmic microwave background radiation and the distribution of galaxies, astronomers have gained insights into the Big Bang theory and the early stages of the universe.
2. Mapping the cosmos: With the help of telescopes and space missions, astronomers have been able to create detailed maps of distant stars, galaxies, and other celestial objects. This has expanded our knowledge of the vastness and diversity of the universe.
3. Discovering exoplanets: Astronomers have found thousands of planets orbiting stars beyond our solar system. This has revolutionized our understanding of planetary systems and increased the chances of finding extraterrestrial life.
4. Advancing our understanding of stars: By studying the life cycles of stars, astronomers have made significant progress in understanding stellar evolution, supernovae, black holes, and other celestial phenomena.
5. Predicting celestial events: Astronomy allows us to predict phenomena like eclipses, meteor showers, and the movements of comets and asteroids. This knowledge aids in planning and coordination for scientific experiments and public outreach.
6. Navigation and timekeeping: Ancient civilizations used astronomical observations to navigate the oceans and create calendars. Today, GPS systems rely on precise measurements of time and location based on satellite orbits, which are determined using celestial observations.
To explore these contributions further, you can refer to scientific journals, books, documentaries, and online resources that cover the history and discoveries in the field of astronomy.