973-c. 1050

Arab Mathematician, Astronomer, and Geographer

Al-Biruni, sometimes referred to as Abu Rayhan al-Biruni, conducted a great deal of original mathematical and astronomical work, most notably when he collaborated with Abu al-Wafa (940-998) on determining the longitudinal difference between Baghdad and his city of Kath in what is now Uzbekistan. He also served an important function as a transmitter of ideas from India, where he spent part of his career, to the Arab world. In all, al-Biruni published well over 100 works.

Born near Kath in the town of Khwarizm on September 4, 973, al-Biruni gained an early education in astronomy and mathematics from Abu Nasr Mansur, whose family ruled the region at that time. As a youngster, he made astronomical observations using a meridian ring.

His world at Kath was soon shattered when in 995 the ruler of nearby Jurjaniya invaded. Al-Biruni most likely fled to the town of Rayy. There...