Robert Grant Aitken
Astronomer and academic known for stellar studies
Born
Died
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'
Other People Born on December 31st
Dennis Everberg
Swedish ice hockey player and Olympian
Born
December 31st, 1991 33 years ago
Played ice hockey primarily as a winger. Competed for the national team in international tournaments, including the Winter Olympics. Played in the Swedish Hockey League and North American leagues, showcasing skills in both domestic and international competitions. Gained recognition during stints with teams such as Modo Hockey and the Colorado Avalanche.
Continue ReadingHerman Boerhaave
Botanist and physician, Systema Plantarum
Born
December 31st, 1668 356 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 1738 287 years ago — 69 years old
Contributions to botany and medicine established a foundation for modern medical education. Developed a systematic approach to plant classification that influenced future botanists. Authored several important texts, including 'Elementa Chemiae' and 'Systema Plantarum', which served as vital resources in both fields. Promoted clinical education for physicians and integrated theory with practice.
Continue ReadingJ. J. Arcega-Whiteside
Football player for the Philadelphia Eagles
Born
December 31st, 1996 28 years ago
Played college football at Stanford University, where a notable performance included a 2017 season with 1,059 receiving yards and 14 touchdown receptions. Selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Contributed to the team during the 2020 season, participating in various games and demonstrating skills in wide receiving.
Continue ReadingAlycia Parks
Tennis player with notable tournament wins
Born
December 31st, 2000 24 years ago
Competed in professional tennis, achieving significant rankings in the Women's Tennis Association (WTA). Gained attention for powerful serves and strong performance in both singles and doubles events. Participated in Grand Slam tournaments, marking a pivotal career stage. Received accolades for contributions to the sport, embodying competitive spirit at a young age.
Continue ReadingKatie Volynets
Professional tennis player with ATP ranking
Born
December 31st, 2001 23 years ago
Professional tennis player achieved significant success at a young age. Competed in various tournaments around the globe. Won the USTA Girls' 18 National Championships in 2018. Gained attention in professional circuits through her performance and potential, securing a spot in the WTA rankings.
Continue ReadingFred Marriott
Race car driver and land speed record holder
Born
December 31st, 1872 152 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1956 69 years ago — 83 years old
Began racing in the early 1900s, competing in various automobile events. Achieved prominence by setting a world land speed record on a motorcycle in 1907, reaching a speed of 202.7 miles per hour at Ormond Beach, Florida. Later transitioned to automobile racing, participating in numerous events including the Vanderbilt Cup. Contributed to the popularity of racing during the early years of motorsport. Continued to compete until the 1920s, becoming an influential figure in the racing community.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 29th
Maria Anna Mozart
Austrian pianist and composer
Born
July 30th, 1751 274 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1829 196 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1751, a skilled pianist and composer emerged from Salzburg, Austria. Recognized early for musical talent, performed extensively across Europe. Shared the stage with the notable composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, often cited as a musical prodigy. Composed many pieces for piano, contributing to the development of classical music. Engaged in performances that showcased the artistry of the piano during a period of significant cultural development in Europe.
Continue ReadingJack Vaughn
Boxer and diplomat
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2012 13 years ago — 92 years old
One of the prominent figures in boxing during the mid-20th century, achieved success in the ring and transitioned to a role in diplomacy. Competed for the United States in various national and international competitions. Later engaged in diplomatic efforts, representing U.S. interests abroad and advocating for international cooperation.
Continue ReadingHal Clement
Science fiction author and educator
Born
May 30th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2003 22 years ago — 81 years old
An American author and educator, gained prominence in the science fiction genre. The first novel, 'Mission of Gravity', published in 1954, showcased a unique blend of hard science fiction and imaginative storytelling. Other notable works include 'Close to Critical' and 'The Nitrogen Fix'. Additionally, contributed to science education through teaching and writing, influencing future generations of scientists and writers.
Continue ReadingJimmy Savile
Television host and radio personality
Born
October 31st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2011 14 years ago — 84 years old
Served as a prominent television and radio presenter in the United Kingdom, gaining recognition for hosting the BBC music show 'Top of the Pops' and the television talk show 'Jim'll Fix It'. In addition to broadcasting, engaged in various charitable activities, founding the National Association for Boys' Clubs. His extensive media career spanned several decades, with a public persona built around entertaining and interacting with audiences through innovative formats.
Continue ReadingLuther Burden
Basketball player with notable collegiate success
Born
February 28th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2015 10 years ago — 62 years old
Played college basketball at the University of Missouri, where exceptional skills led to a successful collegiate career. After college, continued career in professional basketball, participating in various leagues. Transitioned to coaching roles after playing career, contributing to player development and the sport's growth at the grassroots level.
Continue ReadingLloyd Bochner
Canadian-American television actor
Born
July 29th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2005 20 years ago — 81 years old
Active from the 1950s to the 1990s, a significant presence in American television, appearing in numerous series and made-for-TV movies. Starred in 'The Starlost', a science fiction series, and portrayed roles in shows like 'The Twilight Zone', 'Perry Mason', and 'Dynasty'. Also appeared in various films throughout the career, contributing to both the television and film industries.
Continue Reading