Robert Grant Aitken
Astronomer and academic known for stellar studies
Born
December 31st, 1864
160 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1951
73 years ago — 86 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
An astronomer and academic, contributions centered on the study of double stars, Aitken established the Northern Hemisphere's most complete catalog of binary stars. Aitken served as a professor at the University of California, Berkeley. His research provided critical data for later astronomical studies, particularly in astrometry. He also held the position of the director of the Lick Observatory, where significant observational advances occurred. Authorship included influential works on stellar systems, contributing to the foundational knowledge of astronomy during the early 20th century.
Compiled the Aitken Double Star Catalog
Served as director of the Lick Observatory
Authored 'New General Catalogue of Double Stars'
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