William Gascoigne (1612-1644) or How a Spider put Leeds at the forefront of the Scientific Revolution

William Gascoigne invented the telescopic sight and micrometer - instruments crucial to the advance of astronomy. He was killed during the Civil War at the age of 32 and for a time it seemed his achievements would be consigned to oblivion for most of his papers had been lost. Learn how his work was rescued and how it came to be central to the rise of modern precision astronomy - and the part played by a spider!
David Sellers is a retired flood defence engineer and a historian of astronomy who has written several books on the subject including 'In search of William Gascoigne: seventeenth century astronomer'. David is vice chair of the Society for the History of Astronomy.

Timings

Tuesday 15 September:

19.30

Location & directions

Belle Isle Working Men's Club, Belle Isle Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 3PE

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Additional information

Please be aware that the Club car park is mainly but not exclusively for members use. Please be mindful of the needs of local residents if parking on nearby streets. William Gascoigne's blue plaque is sited nearby and can be viewed before or after after the talk. Someone will be on hand to show you the exact location.

Estimated duration:

1 hour(s)

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