Comets tell us something about ourselves?
Comets have long been viewed as celestial omens, their unpredictable appearances inspiring awe, fear, and speculation. Across cultures and centuries, they have been linked to significant events, from the deaths of kings to the rise of empires. Ancient civilizations interpreted their streaking presence as messages from the gods or harbingers of disaster. These interpretations, rooted in mythology and superstition, highlight humanity’s deep connection to the sky and its mysteries.
Halley’s Comet, perhaps the most famous, was seen as a divine signal during William the Conqueror's 1066 invasion of England. Similarly, in 1811, a spectacular comet coincided with the lead-up to Napoleon’s Russian campaign, fueling beliefs in its role as a cosmic warning. These associations persisted into modern times, showing how celestial events continue to captivate and influence human imagination.