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William H M Christie
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William H M Christie
Sir WILLIAM HENRY MAHONEY CHRISTIE English astronomer : appointed Astronomer Royal in 1881. Date: 1845 - 1922
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Media ID 14299638
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
1845 1881 Appointed Astronomer Christie 1922 Mahoney
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph captures Sir William Henry Mahoney Christie (1845-1922), a renowned English astronomer who made significant contributions to the field during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Appointed as Astronomer Royal in 1881, Christie's expertise and dedication to astronomy left an indelible mark on the scientific community. Born on March 12, 1845, in London, Christie displayed an early aptitude for mathematics and science. He studied at the Royal Military Academy in Woolwich before joining the Royal Artillery as a surveyor. However, his passion for astronomy soon took precedence, and he pursued it with fervor. Christie's most notable achievement came in 1874 when he discovered the periodic variation in the brightness of the star Algol, now known as the "Demons Star." This groundbreaking discovery, which demonstrated the existence of an eclipsing binary system, revolutionized the study of variable stars and paved the way for further advancements in astrophysics. In 1881, Christie was appointed Astronomer Royal, a position he held until his retirement in 1910. During his tenure, he oversaw the construction of the Royal Observatory's new equatorial telescope, which allowed for more precise observations of celestial bodies. Sir William Henry Mahoney Christie's legacy extends beyond his groundbreaking discoveries. He was a dedicated teacher and mentor, inspiring generations of astronomers and scientists. His commitment to advancing astronomical knowledge and his innovative approaches to observational techniques continue to influence the field today. This photograph, taken during Christie's later years, captures the wisdom and quiet determination of a man whose curiosity about the universe led to groundbreaking discoveries and a lasting impact on the scientific community.
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