Gian Domenico Cassini

(Cassini) (Jean-Dominique)
. (8.06.1625, Perinaldo, Imperia, Italy - 14.09.1712, Paris)
. Professor of the University of Bologna (in the 1660's.), A member of the Paris Academy of Sciences (since 1669), director of the Paris Observatory (since its inception in 1669), founder of the famous "Dynasty" astronomers
. History of life to. is a very illustrative example of the changing attitudes of the scientific community to astrology in the XVII-XVIII centuries. In his youth to. greatly carried away by the astrological theories, which gave impetus to studies in astronomy. He soon became known as one of the great scholars of astrology. It is thanks to a well-deserved reputation astrologer began scientific career to. Marquis Cornelio Malvasia, a wealthy amateur astronomer and senator of Bologna, which was astrological ephemeris, invited to. to work at his observatory in Pandzano near Bologna. Working in the observatory, K. constructed its first several astronomical instruments, conducted the first scientific observations. Gradually lesson in astronomy at the forefront and became dominant by the end of life to. The ratio K. to astrology has become increasingly critical (important role played here familiar with the Treaty of Pico della Mirandola "Against predictive astrology") and in the period after the departure of K. France in February 1669, Mr.. We have not found any evidence to the Occupation. astrology. Priorities K. finally established themselves in the field of scientific astronomy and geodesy.
Literature:
1. Taton R. Cassini, Gian Domenico. / / Dictionary of Scientific Biography.
2. Astronomy: Encyclopedia for Children.
3. BSE.