In November 1572 a new star-like object became visible close to the constellation of
Cassiopeia. By careful observations the Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe
concluded that the object in fact is a "new star", probably, he later thought, the result
of an implosion of surrounding nebular materia.
Although the arrival of a new star was very astounding
at a time when the science still was permeated by "the Aristotelian dogma"
(i.e. the theologically supported belief that Aristotle is the perfect scientist),
Tycho had the courage to publish his
conclusions in 1573 in a book directly dealing with the new star,
"De Nova Stella". This book became
as revolutionary in its field as Copernicus' "De revolutionibus" had become
in its.
His observatory Uraniburg on the island of
Hven (Öresund) was founded in 1576,
and here astronomical observations were made by Tycho and his many assistants
under the protection of
the Danish king, Fredrik II, for more than 20 years.
His observations, performed with help of many sophisticated instruments but without the
not yet invented telescope,
undoubtedly prepared the way for Kepler and Newton, i.e. modern astronomy and physics.
"Astronomiska Sällskapet Tycho Brahe", a society open
for all interested in astronomy, both professionals and amateurs, was founded in 1937
by Knut Lundmark. "The Tycho Brahe Observatory" at Oxie (Malmö), and the Swedish
publication, "Populär astronomi",
are valuable elements in its activities today.
The bronze bust of Tycho shown here was made by V. Bissen for the 300 years
anniversary of Tycho's death,
originally placed in front of "Lundagårdshuset" in Lund, but was moved in 1904 to
the then existing observatory at Svanegatan. Today, it has followed the
astronomers to the new astronomy house at Sölvegatan.
The text on its pedestal reads
The last lines are a motto of Tycho, probably hinting at the idea, that one should be mild
in manners but strong in reason.
