From the top of Blackpool Tower (approx 150 metres) on the UK's west coast, can you see the curvature of Earth along the Irish Sea horizon? I thought I could, but my friend disagreed. If I'm wrong, how high would we have needed to be?Mark Ford, Bolton, Lancashire, UK
It is not possible to apply the scientific method to a subjective test without the presence of a control. If I go up the tower and claim I can see the curvature of the horizon this proves nothing. The use of straight edges against which a the horizon can be compared was not part of the original posit. Unless the curved horizon could be randomly replaced with a non-curved horizon and a blind (no pun intended) test performed, it is not possible to determine whether the curved is detected or imagined. Anyone care to suggest how such as non-curved horizon could be constructed on the same scale.
A previous person (John Twin) commented that if he lived closer, he would just do the experiemnt himself. I agree - but why do you need to live closer? a simple internet search of 'view from top of blackpool tower' can provide all the answers you need.