Historical Background

Setting and Time Period: The play is set in the early 1900s, primarily at the Harvard College Observatory in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This was a time when women were rarely acknowledged in the scientific community and often relegated to subordinate roles.

Harvard College Observatory: At this time, the observatory was under the direction of Edward Charles Pickering, who employed women, known as "computers," to process astronomical data. These women worked on cataloging and analyzing astronomical data, especially the measurement of the brightness of stars, using photographic plates.

Role of Women in Science: The early 20th century was a period of limited opportunities for women in science. Despite this, many women made significant, though often unrecognized, contributions. They were typically paid less and given little credit for their discoveries.

Henrietta Swan Leavitt: The protagonist of Silent Sky, Leavitt was one of these "computers." She worked on a project that involved studying Cepheid variable stars, a type of star that varies in brightness over a regular period. Her work led to the discovery of the period-luminosity relationship, which became crucial for measuring astronomical distances and understanding the scale of the universe.

Leavitt's Discovery: Leavitt's discovery of the period-luminosity relationship for Cepheid variables provided astronomers with a "standard candle" for measuring the distance to faraway galaxies. This breakthrough laid the groundwork for future astronomers like Edwin Hubble to determine that the universe is expanding.

Impact on Astronomy: Leavitt's work fundamentally changed the field of astronomy, allowing for a better understanding of the size and structure of the universe. Her findings were instrumental in shifting the perception of the Milky Way as the entire universe to the concept of multiple galaxies.

The Play's Themes

Gender and Recognition: The play highlights the struggles and triumphs of women in a male-dominated field, focusing on the lack of recognition and the challenges they faced.
Passion for Science: Henrietta's dedication to her work and her passion for understanding the stars drive the narrative, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and perseverance.
Human Connections: The play also explores the personal relationships and sacrifices made by Henrietta and her colleagues, illustrating the balance between professional ambition and personal life.