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History of astronomical discoveries

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Abstract

The wide diversity of routes to astronomical, astrophysical and cosmological discovery is discussed through a number of historical case studies. Prime ingredients for success include new technology, precision observation, extensive databases, capitalising upon discoveries in cognate disciplines, imagination and luck. Being in the right place at the right time is a huge advantage. The changing perspectives on the essential tools for tackling frontier problems and astronomical advance are discussed.

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Notes

  1. I have given many more details of the achievements of Tycho Brahe, Kepler, Galileo and Newton in my book Theoretical Concepts in Physics [15].

  2. Many more details of the discoveries discussed in the remainder of this essay are included in my book The Cosmic Century: A History of Astrophysics and Cosmology [16].

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  1. Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK

    Malcolm Longair

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Longair, M. History of astronomical discoveries. Exp Astron 25, 241–259 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10686-009-9145-x

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