Clyde Tombaugh

American astronomer, discovered Pluto

Clyde Tombaugh - American astronomer, discovered Pluto
Born

February 4th, 1906
119 years ago

Died

January 17th, 1997
28 years ago — 90 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United States

Links & References

An American astronomer and academic, contributed to the field of astronomy through the discovery of Pluto. Employed at the Lowell Observatory in Arizona, utilized the technique of detecting planetary bodies through photographic plates. Conducted extensive studies of Mars and other celestial objects. Taught at New Mexico State University and authored several scientific papers, solidifying a legacy in planetary science.

Discovered Pluto in 1930

Conducted studies on Mars

Published works on planetary science

Other People Born on February 4th

Fernand Léger

Painter and sculptor of modern art
Born
February 4th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1955 70 years ago — 74 years old

A pioneering figure in modern art, this artist developed a unique visual language characterized by bold colors and geometric forms. Emerging as part of the Cubist movement, the works created often explored the interplay between industrialization and the human experience. Notable contributions included the use of mechanical objects and the incorporation of vivid colors to depict modern life. The artist founded a style that blended abstraction with representational elements, influencing subsequent generations of artists. The artist's works have been exhibited widely and remain significant in art history.

Continue Reading

Reinhold Rudenberg

Inventor and electron microscopy pioneer
Born
February 4th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 78 years old

Born in Germany, an inventor significantly contributed to the development of electron microscopy. This technology allowed scientists to view specimens at a much higher resolution than traditional optical microscopes. Rudenberg's work included advancements in electron optics and instrumentation. After moving to the United States, he continued research and development in this field, influencing future technologies and methodologies in microscopy. His efforts laid the groundwork for modern imaging techniques used in various scientific fields.

Continue Reading

Augustin Pyramus de Candolle

Swiss botanist and mycologist
Born
February 4th, 1778 247 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1841 183 years ago — 63 years old

This individual contributed significantly to botany and mycology through extensive research and classifying plant species. Served as a professor at the University of Geneva, where instruction focused on natural sciences. Published important works including 'Flore Française' and 'Geographie Botanique Raisonnée', which influenced botanical nomenclature and taxonomy. Participated in the establishment of the International Botanical Congress, promoting collaboration among scientists in the field.

Continue Reading

Ken Thompson

Computer Scientist, Co-developer of Unix
Born
February 4th, 1943 82 years ago

Contributed significantly to the development of the Unix operating system. Co-developed the B programming language, which laid the groundwork for later programming languages. Worked at Bell Labs, collaborating with Dennis Ritchie to create the robust Unix architecture. Earned the Turing Award in 1983 for profound contributions to computing.

Continue Reading

Jean Aicard

French poet and playwright
Born
February 4th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1921 103 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1848, this individual became a prominent figure in French literature, contributing significantly as a poet, author, and playwright. Celebrated works include the drama 'Les Deux Gosses' and a variety of poetry that reflected the social and cultural nuances of the time. This individual was also involved in the collaboration of various literary projects that emphasized the importance of the arts in society. The individual served as the president of the Société des Gens de Lettres, an organization of writers and artists.

Continue Reading

Robert Coover

American novelist and short story writer
Born
February 4th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
October 5th, 2024 0 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1932, this author gained prominence in postmodern literature through the exploration of narrative structure and the interplay of fiction and reality. Works featured elements of magical realism, metafiction, and satire, reflecting contemporary cultural themes. The writing style often challenged conventional storytelling, inviting readers to question the nature of narratives. Significant contributions included novels and short stories in collections that garnered attention for their inventive approach to literary form.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 17th

Mateiu Caragiale

Romanian journalist and author
Born
1885 140 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1936 89 years ago — 51 years old

A Romanian journalist, author, and poet contributed significantly to literature and journalism in the early 20th century. Prominent works include novels and essays that capture the essence of Romanian society and culture. His writing style blended modernist influences with local traditions, showcasing profound psychological insights and witty commentary. Active in literary circles, he also engaged in various cultural movements of the time. The intertwining of personal experiences and broader societal observations characterized much of the literary output, making a notable mark on the Romanian cultural landscape.

Continue Reading

Jules Feiffer

Cartoonist and playwright; wrote 'Little Murders'
Born
January 26th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2025 0 years ago — 95 years old

An influential cartoonist and playwright, contributed significantly to American humor and satire. Created the comic strip 'Feiffer', which ran for six decades in various publications. Worked in theater as a playwright and won a Tony Award for the play 'Little Murders'. Co-wrote the screenplay for the film 'Carnal Knowledge', which received an Academy Award nomination. Served as a professor, teaching cartooning and graphic novel courses at several institutions.

Continue Reading

Simon Kovar

Bassoon player and educator
Born
1890 135 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1970 55 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent bassoon player and educator, contributed significantly to music education and performance. Served as a professor at various institutions and influenced the development of numerous musicians. Actively participated in orchestras and chamber music, shaping the landscape of bassoon performance during the 20th century. Held a key role in promoting the bassoon as a solo instrument. Engaged in performances across several prominent music venues.

Continue Reading

Suchitra Sen

Indian Film Actress notable for works in Bengali cinema
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old

An acclaimed film actress in Bengali cinema, earned recognition in the 1950s and 1960s. Starred in numerous films that contributed significantly to the industry, including 'Saptapadi' and 'Devdas'. Became the first Indian actress to receive the Best Actress award at the Moscow International Film Festival in 1966. Transitioned away from films in the 1970s, leading a reclusive life after her retirement from acting.

Continue Reading

Art Buchwald

Journalist and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
October 20th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2007 18 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent journalist and author contributed to American cultural commentary through humor and satire. Buchwald wrote columns for the Washington Post and published numerous books. His writing often highlighted political and social issues, reflecting on contemporary American life. He garnered acclaim for unique storytelling and wit, which resonated with audiences. In 1982, won the Pulitzer Prize for his outstanding commentary, solidifying a significant legacy in journalism until death in 2007.

Continue Reading

Alexander Dargomyzhsky

Russian composer of operas
Born
1813 212 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1869 156 years ago — 56 years old

A notable Russian composer during the 19th century, focused on the development of Russian opera. His most famous work, the opera 'Rusalka', integrated Russian themes and folklore into the operatic tradition. Dargomyzhsky was instrumental in bridging the gap between classical and folk music, influencing future generations of Russian composers. He also contributed to the establishment of a distinctly Russian operatic style that emphasized national identity through music.

Continue Reading