#fridayreads: Copernicus Birthday

 

Our solar system includes planets, moons, and one Sun. This may not be new information to you, but did you know that Nicolaus Copernicus, astronomer and mathematician, was the first person to propose that the Earth is not the center of the solar system? This model of the universe is called heliocentrism.

Copernicus was born on February 19, 1473 and according to his mother he was the most precious baby and the center of her universe.  Fact check: this is an assumption and this blog does not have a reputable source for this particular bit of fiction. Please be careful with source citations. 

Did someone say fiction? How about non-fiction? Pluto would like to have a word with you about its planetary status. Is Pluto a Planet? probably has some theories. Interested in photos of all of the planets? The Planets: photographs from the archives of NASA is a good place to start. The History and Practice of Ancient Astronomy and Astronomy: a visual guide will take you on a journey from the past to the future, no passport required. A More Perfect Heaven: how Copernicus revolutionized the cosmos gives readers a portrait of scientific achievement against a background of intense religious and social turmoil. 

If current social turmoil keeps you at home, we have electronic books and a surplus of exclamation points!! The Copernian Question: Prognostication, Skepticism, and Celestial Order and The making of Copernicus : early modern transformations of the scientist and his science are just two selections from our online collection. Have fun reading and remember to never look directly at the Sun!