The Mountain of Stars: Meet three distinguished astronomers whose work was influenced by a majestic African landform.
Published In: Sky & Telescope, 2025, v. 150, n. 5. P. 20 1 of 3
Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3
Authored By: Young, Susan 3 of 3
Abstract
The article focuses on the constellation Mensa, which is inspired by Table Mountain in South Africa, and its significance to three prominent astronomers: Nicolas Louis de Lacaille, John Herschel, and Thomas Maclear. Table Mountain, a geological marvel rising over 1,000 meters, has a rich history and unique geological features that influenced these astronomers' work in the Southern Hemisphere. Lacaille, who first observed the southern stars from near Table Mountain in 1751, created the constellation Mensa to honor the mountain's distinctive shape and the clouds that often cover it. Maclear later confirmed Lacaille's measurements and contributed to the understanding of Earth's shape, while Herschel conducted extensive astronomical observations from the mountain's base. [Extracted from the article]
Additional Information
- Source:Sky & Telescope. 2025/11, Vol. 150, Issue 5, p20
- Document Type:Article
- Subject Area:Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Publication Date:2025
- ISSN:0037-6604
- Accession Number:187226394
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