The Prime Meridian: A Key Geographic Reference

Who established the prime meridian in London, England?

a. Marco Polo

b. Ptolemy

c. George Airy

d. Piri Reis

Final answer: Sir George Airy

Answer:

Sir George Airy, the Astronomer Royal of Britain, established the prime meridian in London, England in 1851.

Exciting news! The prime meridian in London, England was officially established by Sir George Airy in 1851. As the Astronomer Royal of Britain, George Airy played a pivotal role in geography by setting up the Greenwich Meridian Line at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London.

The prime meridian, also known as the Greenwich Meridian Line, represents 0 degrees longitude and divides the Earth into Eastern and Western hemispheres. This important geographic marker serves as a crucial reference point for global navigation and timekeeping.

Sir George Airy's contribution in establishing the prime meridian has had a lasting impact on how we perceive and understand the world. It has become an integral part of maps, navigation systems, and various geographical studies.

By setting up the prime meridian, Sir George Airy has left a legacy that continues to be celebrated and utilized in modern-day geography and astronomy.