From Antiquariaat Schierenberg, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Seller rating 5 out of 5 stars
AbeBooks Seller since 1 October 2001
About this Item
Königsberg in Preussen, Gebrüder Bornträger, 1841-1842. Two volumes in one (26.5 x 21.9 cm). 4to. viii, 314; iv, 308 pp. Contemporary style marbled boards. Red morocco label with gilt title on the spine. = Important and rare scientific contributions by the German astronomer and mathematician Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel (1784-1846), published not long before his untimely death. Bessel, who was director of the Königsberg Observatory, determined the position of 50,000 stars, producing a catalogue that became the standard for many years. He was the first to use a star's parallax to determine its distance (61 Cygni, at a distance of nearly 10 light years). This may be regarded as the starting point of understanding the depth of space. As a mathematician, Bessel is best known for developing the so-called Bessel functions, which are important for the solution of equations used in both classical physics and quantum physics. Without formal training in science, Bessel became a fellow of the prestigious Royal Society. This work, published in two parts, contains 14 different contributions, some original and not published before (e.g. a paper on the weight of Jupiter), while others have been reworked from Bessel s earlier studies. He wrote the prefaces to both parts and it is clear that he regarded these contributions as the most important he made, especially from a practical point of view. "From 1840 on, Bessel's health deteriorated . After two years of great suffering, Bessel died" (DSB). This work, therefore, is in a way Bessel's scientific testament. A very good, complete copy. Rare, with no auction records for the last 35 years. DSB II, p. 98; Houzeau & Lancaster, 3569; Not in Cat. BM(NH). Seller Inventory # 63633
Bibliographic Details
Title: Astronomische Untersuchungen. Erster Band [...
Binding: Hardcover
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