The Magnificent Observatory and Discoveries of Johannes Hevelius

Johannes Hevelius is one of the symbols of Gdansk, Poland. He is also one of the three great intellectuals, along with Fahrenheit and Schopenhauer, who were born in this city. During Hevelius’ life, his observatory was known as one of the most important centers for astronomy in Europe.

The Life and Loves of Johannes Hevelius

Johannes Hevelius, known in Poland as Jan Heweliusz, lived at the center of the city of Gdansk near the Baltic Sea. He grew up in a town that was full of different cultures, possibilities, and freedom of speech. Johannes was born on January 28, 1611 to Abraham and Kordula Hewelke. (The surname ‘Hewelke’ has been transformed many times and currently it's recognized as Hevelius.) The family were German-speaking Lutherans.

As a boy, Johannes studied at the gymnasium. While he was there, he was taught by the famous mathematician Peter Kruger. In 1630, Hevelius went on to study law at Leiden. After completing his studies, he traveled in France and England – where he met Pierre Gassendi, Marin Mersenne, and Athanasius Kircher.

Kruger's Azimuthal Quadrant, completed by Johannes Hevelius 1644. (Public Domain)