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Jacques CassiniFrench astronomer
Date of Birth: 18.02.1677
Country:  France |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Astronomical Observations and Surveys
- Contributions to Planetary Science and Lunar Astronomy
- Geodetics and Maritime Phenomena
- Scientific Beliefs and Legacy
Early Life and Education
Jacques Cassini, the son of the renowned astronomer Jean-Dominique Cassini, was born in the Paris Observatory in 1677. He completed his education at the Collège Mazarin in 1691 and subsequently joined his father at the Paris Observatory.
Astronomical Observations and Surveys
Cassini assisted his father in astronomical observations and geodetic measurements. In 1695, he accompanied him on an expedition to Italy and later visited Flanders, the Netherlands, and England, where he conducted numerous astronomical and geodetic surveys. From 1700 to 1701, he participated in the measurement of the southern arc of the Paris meridian, completing the measurement of the northern section in 1718, extending it to Dunkirk.
Contributions to Planetary Science and Lunar Astronomy
Cassini dedicated his work to determining the Earth's shape, studying planets and their moons, and comets. He proposed a method for determining longitude based on observations of lunar occultations. His meticulous observations led to advancements in the understanding of planetary satellite orbits and the structure of Saturn's rings.
Geodetics and Maritime Phenomena
Cassini's geodetic surveys contributed significantly to the understanding of the Earth's shape, although he erroneously believed it to be a prolate spheroid. He also studied tidal phenomena. After Edmund Halley's discovery of proper motions in stars, Cassini initiated their measurements.
Scientific Beliefs and Legacy
A staunch Cartesian, Cassini opposed the theory of universal gravitation, interpreting observational data through the lens of vortex theory. He became a member of the Paris Academy of Sciences in 1699 and the Royal Society of London in 1698. In recognition of his contributions, a lunar crater and an asteroid (number 24102) bear his name.
