Sunday, March 9, 2008

Caroline Herschel




Caroline Lucretia Herschel



German/English Astronomer, 1759 - 1848



Caroline Herschel was born on March 16, 1750 in Hannover, Germany. She served in the home of her parents until 1772, when her brother William Herschel took her to England.

Caroline was observing with a 27-inch focal length Newtonian 'sweeper'. She discovered a number of deepsky objects in the time of 1783-87, notably an independent discovery of M110 (NGC 205), the second companion of the Andromeda Galaxy. Caroline stated to have observed 14 objects until the end of 1783. In addition she assisted her more famous! brother William Herschel.

Silver Coin Galaxy



One of Caroline Herschel's famous discoveries is NGC 253 also known as Silver Coin Galaxy.


In order to honor women in science on the International Women's Day I picked this particular galaxy. Most women in science live and remain in obscurity after their death. This is my small contribution to remind us all that there are a number of women that have contributed to science and other societal areas throughout history without proper acknowledgment.

This is why I chose the Silver Coin Galaxy the 7th of March 2008.






No comments: