Geocentric Science

Scientists learn about the radiation given off by space by using a spectrometer and measuring the radiation frequency of gases. This optical telescope can detect visible light. Each gas produces a certain line pattern, and this is considered the gas’ fingerprint. Each gas has its own line pattern (or fingerprint).

For example, below are two sets of spectral lines. #1 represents lab spectral lines for hydrogen gas. #2 represents spectral lines of hydrogen gas from a distant galaxy.

Lab and galaxy lines are not aligned. The galaxy lines are shifted towards the right or towards the red end of the spectrum and therefore, there is a redshift and the galaxy is moving away from us (Earth).

Depending on how much the spectral lines are shifted, will determine the velocity (speed) in which the galaxy is moving away from us.