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Astronomers Quote by Murray Gell-Mann

“You know, there was a time, just before I started to study physical science, when astronomers thought that systems such as we have here in the solar system required a rare triple collision of stars” quote by Murray Gell-Mann
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“You know, there was a time, just before I started to study physical science, when astronomers thought that systems such as we have here in the solar system required a rare triple collision of stars”

Murray Gell-Mann

About This Quote

Source Interview: Scientific American, 1995

He reflects on how early astronomers believed complex planetary systems required unlikely stellar collisions, highlighting the evolution of scientific models.

In simple terms: Early ideas on planetary formation seemed improbable.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions with new evidence.

Themes

astronomy science history modeling

Mood

curious analytical

Type

scientific historical

When to use this quote

  • space exploration
  • education curricula
  • public outreach
  • research funding

Key Concepts

cosmology probability evolution of ideas

Questions to Reflect On

  • What evidence changed our view of planetary formation?
  • How do we test rare events in astronomy?
A Different Perspective

New models may still be limited by current technology.

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