A time-lapse video capturing the Earth’s rotation has gone viral on social media, showcasing the movement in a way that makes the concept visually accessible. The video was created by Dorje Angchuk, an Indian astronomer based in Ladakh, who serves as the Engineer-in-Charge at the Indian Astronomical Observatory in Hanle.
Angchuk utilized a 24-hour time-lapse technique to record the video, which has been condensed into a one-minute clip. The footage clearly illustrates how the Earth rotates, with stars appearing stationary while the Earth itself rotates. This demonstration is aimed at helping students better understand the phenomenon of Earth’s rotation.
In an interview, Angchuk explained the challenges faced during the filming process, particularly the extreme cold conditions in Ladakh. He noted that over the course of four nights, he experienced multiple battery failures and timer malfunctions. Despite these setbacks, Angchuk remained determined and successfully completed the video.
A Day in Motion – Capturing Earth’s Rotation
The stars remain still, but Earth never stops spinning. My goal was to capture a full 24-hour time-lapse, revealing the transition from day to night and back again. @IIABengaluru @asipoec (1/n) pic.twitter.com/LnCQNXJC9R
— Dorje Angchuk (@dorje1974) January 31, 2025
The time-lapse video is now being hailed as an effective educational tool, offering a simple yet clear visual representation of Earth’s rotation for students and science enthusiasts alike.
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