Le VerrierMagnificent and Detestable Astronomer [Hardcover]

Translated from the original French by Bernard Sheehan; Edited and with an introduction by?Dr. William Sheehan, a neuroscientist and amateur astronomer who is also a research fellow of the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona

Le Verrier was a superb scientist. His discovery of Neptune in 1846 made him the most famous astronomer of his time. He produced a complete theory of the motions of the planets which served as a basis for planetary ephemeris for a full century. Doing this, he discovered an anomaly in the motion of Mercury which later became the first proof of General Relativity. He also founded European meteorology. However his arrogance and bad temper created many enemies, and he was even fired from his position of Director of the Paris Observatory.

This book explores the scientific career of a man whose 1846 discovery of Neptune made him the most famous astronomer of his time, while his arrogance and bad temper made him many enemies, even to the point of his dismissal as Director of the Paris Observatory.The young years (1811-1845).- Neptunes discovery (1845-1846).- Waiting for the Paris Observatory (1847-1843).- Director of the Observatory (1844-1870).- The dictator.- The fall (1870-1872).- The second reign (1873-1877).- Longitudes via telegraph.- The creator of European meteorology.- Le Verriers heritage.

From the book reviews:

The principals are illustrated together with many instruments, documents and buildings, as a standalone collection it would be very useful to any student of 19^th century science. & the book comes directly from French archives, making this the definitive English language biography of Le Verrier. It makes an indispensable addition to our knowledge of astronomy of that turbulent era. & It must find a place in any Library dedicated to the history of science. (Brian Sheen, F.A.S. Newsletter, Issue 105, Spring, 2014)

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