Matthew Fontaine Maury
Oceanographer and chart maker
Born
January 14th, 1806
219 years ago
Died
1873
152 years ago — 67 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
An American astronomer, oceanographer, and historian, contributed significantly to the understanding of ocean currents and marine meteorology. His work led to the first comprehensive oceanographic charts, which improved navigation and maritime safety. Maury served in the U.S. Navy and became a prominent advocate for oceanography as a science, establishing the U.S. Naval Observatory and the U.S. Naval Academy's Department of Mathematics. His publications, particularly 'The Physical Geography of the Sea,' garnered widespread recognition and were foundational in the field of oceanography.
Developed the first oceanographic charts
Authored 'The Physical Geography of the Sea'
Established the U.S. Naval Observatory
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