February 2023
Tobias Mayer
or measuring the earth, sea and sky
by Thomas Knubben
—300th birthday of Tobias Mayer in February 2023 — The rediscovery of a great scientist — A chapter in the fascinating history of science The story of Tobias Mayer's life (1723 to 1762) is that of a child prodigy and orphan who became a pioneer of the Enlightenment as a cartographer, mathematician, physicist and astronomer. Having never been to university, at the age of 28 he was appointed a professor in Göttingen by the Elector of Hanover and King of England. He revolutionised cartography with his zeal and skill, helping sailors to find the right path across the seas and providing people with the firstever clear view of the moon. 17th February 2023 marks the 300th anniversary of the birth of Tobias Mayer. High time to recall this prototype of a scientist.
