New Facts From the First Galaxy Distance Estimates

TL;DR

This paper reveals that early galaxy distance estimates, previously thought to be new discoveries by Hubble, were actually made earlier, emphasizing the importance of historical data in understanding astronomical progress.

Contribution

It uncovers historical inaccuracies in galaxy distance discoveries and highlights the value of the NED-D database for tracing the chronology of extragalactic distance measurements.

Findings

Two discoveries credited to Hubble were made earlier.

Early distance estimates predate Hubble's work.

Historical data can correct scientific attribution.

Abstract

A new database from the NASA/IPAC Extragalactic Database (NED) of galaxy Distances (NED-D), normally the source for the newest precision-based estimates, provides access to the oldest redshift-independent extragalactic distances in the publication record. Two new surprises emerge when the early distance estimates are placed in chronological order. Both discoveries credited to Hubble based on these distances had in fact been made earlier. Hubble however, proved the case.