How did astronomers determine the existence of the Oort Cloud despite never directly observing it?
Answer
Through the mathematical study of long-period cometary orbits
Direct observation of the Oort Cloud remains impossible with current technology. Its existence is inferred entirely through the mathematical study of cometary orbits. Scientists observed that long-period comets arrive from every direction, not just the flat ecliptic plane, leading to the conclusion that a spherical cloud of icy bodies must exist at a vast distance to serve as the source for these visitors.
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