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Donatis Comet of 1858, artwork
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Donatis Comet of 1858, artwork
Comet Donati, or Donatis Comet, formally designated C/1858 L1 and 1858 VI, was a comet named after the Italian astronomer Giovanni Battista Donati who first observed it on June 2, 1858. The comet is considered a non-periodic comet. After the Great Comet of 1811, it was the most brilliant comet that appeared in the 19th century. It was also the first comet to be photographed. It was nearest the Earth on October 10, 1858 and is expected to return in 39th century.Abraham Lincoln, then a candidate for a seat in the U.S. Senate, sat up on the porch of his hotel in Jonesboro, Illinois to see " Dontis Comet" on September 14, 1858, the night before the third of his historic debates with Stephen Douglas. Donatis Comet appears as a streak and star in the early evening sky of a painting by William Dyce, A Recollection of October 5th, 1858
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6316683
© Detlev van Ravenswaay
Approach Astrophysical Astrophysics At Night Bridge Brightest City Cityscape Close Closest Coma Comet Cometary Core Dark History Of Science Large Night Sky Observation Observations October Planetary Science River Solar System Spectacular Star Starry Stars Tail Town 11th 1858 Donati
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the awe-inspiring Donatis Comet of 1858, a celestial wonder that left a lasting impact on both astronomers and historical figures alike. Named after the renowned Italian astronomer Giovanni Battista Donati, who first observed it on June 2nd, 1858, this non-periodic comet became one of the most brilliant comets to grace the skies in the 19th century. What makes this artwork particularly remarkable is its status as the first-ever photograph of a comet. It captured imaginations around the world and marked a significant milestone in astronomical history. The image depicts Donatis Comet as an ethereal streak amidst a starry night sky, beautifully portrayed by artist William Dyce in his painting titled "A Recollection of October 5th, 1858". The significance of this celestial event extended beyond scientific circles. On September 14th, 1858, Abraham Lincoln himself took time out from his U. S. Senate campaign to witness Donatis Comet from his hotel porch in Jonesboro, Illinois. This extraordinary sight served as inspiration for him before engaging in historic debates with Stephen Douglas. As we gaze upon this breathtaking artwork capturing such an important moment in human understanding of our universe's wonders, we are reminded not only of our fascination with comets but also their ability to bridge gaps between science and history. Detlev van Ravenswaay's masterful photography allows us to appreciate both the beauty and historical significance encapsulated within this single image.
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