1473-1543

Polish Astronomer, Priest, and Mathemetician

Nicolaus Copernicus founded modern astronomy by breaking with classical and theological tradition and proposing a mathematically supported heliocentric theory of planetary motion. His work also initiated the process that led to the Scientific Revolution.

Copernicus was born and spent his early life in Poland. After beginning his education at the University of Cracow, he studied mathematics, astrology, astronomy, canon and civil law, and medicine in Italy at Bolgna, Rome, and Padua. He received a doctorate in canon law from the University of Ferrara. Returning to Poland, he devoted his life to church administration as canon of Frombork Cathedral.

Copernicus became interested in problems in astronomy and mathematics when he served as an assistant to Domenico Maria de Novara during his studies in Italy. He became aware that a sun-centered rather than an Earth-centered universe had long been supported by some...