1772–1813. ON EARLY SCIENTIFIC ACTIVITY OF THE ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATORY AT UNIVERSITY OF COIMBRA
1772–1813. ON EARLY SCIENTIFIC ACTIVITY OF THE ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATORY AT UNIVERSITY OF COIMBRA

Author(s): Fernando Bandeira Figueiredo
Subject(s): History, Higher Education , History of Education, 18th Century, 19th Century
Published by: Scientia Socialis, UAB
Keywords: 18th century; University of Coimbra; Astronomy; Observatory; Astronomical Ephemeris;
Summary/Abstract: The establishment of scientific education at the University of Coimbra was one of the most important accomplishments of the Reform of the University in 1772. One of the best examples is the creation of the Faculty Mathematics and of the Astronomical Observatory (OAUC). The foundation of the OAUC – thefirst Portuguese university–based astronomical observatory, although with attributes typical of a national observatory – was fundamental in the institutionalization of astronomical science in Portugal. José Monteiro da Rocha (1734–1819) was the central personality beyond the conception, planning and construction of OAUC, as well as in its instrument’s provision. He was also behind the applied mathematical and astronomical methods that allowed the OAUC to establish and publish its most important and significant scientific production: the Astronomical Ephemeris (1803). In this paper, we will review Monteiro da Rocha’s contributions for the foundation of the OAUC and its scientific astronomical activity.

• Details
• Contents