Watch Undaunted: The Forgotten Giants of the Allegheny Observatory

Undaunted: The Forgotten Giants of the Allegheny Observatory is a 2012 documentary film that tells the story of two unsung heroes in the field of astrophysics who worked tirelessly to advance knowledge of the universe despite facing significant challenges and setbacks during their careers. The film centers around the lives and work of two astronomers at the Allegheny Observatory in Pittsburgh: John Brashear and James Keeler. Brashear was a self-taught lensmaker whose innovative designs helped improve the construction of scientific instruments. Keeler was a brilliant scientist who pushed the boundaries of astronomical research through his pioneering use of spectroscopy.

Through interviews with experts, historians, and descendants of Brashear and Keeler, the film takes us on a journey through the historic Allegheny Observatory, showcasing its storied past and present-day significance in astronomical research.

We learn about Brashear's humble beginnings as the son of a mill worker and how he honed his skills as a lensmaker by trial and error. He went on to construct some of the most cutting-edge equipment of his time, including lenses for telescopes used by observatories around the world.

Keeler's fascinating story is no less compelling. He started off as a teenage assistant to Brashear in the early days of the observatory and quickly rose through the ranks. Later on, he became the first astronomer to use spectroscopy to study the atmosphere of planets beyond our own solar system. His work paved the way for discoveries about the composition and structure of stars and galaxies.

Throughout the film, we see how Brashear and Keeler faced numerous obstacles during their careers, including overcoming social and financial barriers as well as navigating professional disputes and rivalries. But their determination and passion for their work kept them going, ultimately leading to groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in the field of astrophysics.

Undaunted: The Forgotten Giants of the Allegheny Observatory not only highlights the work of these two pioneering astronomers but also sheds light on the importance of preserving the legacy and history of scientific institutions like Allegheny Observatory. The film serves as a reminder that the pursuit of knowledge often requires tenacity and perseverance, and that even the smallest contributions can make a significant impact on our understanding of the universe.

Overall, Undaunted: The Forgotten Giants of the Allegheny Observatory is a fascinating and enlightening documentary that celebrates the contributions of two unsung heroes of astrophysics while also revealing the rich history of one of America's most important observatories. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in astronomy, scientific discovery, or the lives of exceptional individuals who have overcome adversity to achieve great things.

Undaunted: The Forgotten Giants of the Allegheny Observatory is a 2012 documentary with a runtime of 56 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.6.