Wednesday, March 7, 2012

The Moon Sank the Titanic


No, really!

According to a team of forensic astronomers (who knew there was such a field?) at Texas State University, an unusually close approach by the moon in January 1912 caused an unprecedented number of icebergs to float farther south than usual, putting them directly in the path of the Titanic.  When Captain Smith ignored the ice warnings, he did so because all of his experience told him that there was no way any ice in the shipping lanes at that time of year would pose a danger to his voyage.  Clearly, he was wrong, but science is now vindicating his decision.

Thanks to Kevin and Aubrey—Titanic Tipsters extraordinaire—for submitting this fun fact.  Keep them coming, kids!

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