from the article by Gabriele Umbriaco “Margherita Hack’s Astrophysics at the Asiago Astrophysical Observatory”, SAIt 2023
One of the most distinguished researchers in the history of the Asiago Astrophysical Observatory is Margherita Hack, who conducted spectroscopic observations between 1951 and 1954. Using the Galileo telescope and the first Italian prism spectrograph, she analyzed novae, symbiotic, and peculiar stars, contributing to the study of stellar atmospheres and their chemical properties.
Observations and Results
During her activity, Hack collected over 180 spectra, analyzing objects such as 55 Cygni and ζ Tauri. Her research allowed measuring fundamental parameters of stars, such as the speed of atmospheric turbulence and chemical composition, laying the foundations for a quantitative approach to spectroscopic study.
Comparisons and Historical Archives
Hack compared the results from Asiago with those obtained in other observatories, helping to refine analysis techniques. The photographic archive of Asiago preserves part of her observations, a heritage useful both for scientific studies and for enhancing the history of astronomy.
Current Research
In 2022, some of her observations were repeated using modern technologies. The comparison with historical data highlighted the accuracy of Hack’s methods, despite the technical limitations of the time.
Her work remains an example of scientific rigor and innovation, contributing to making Asiago a reference center for astronomical research.