Williamina Fleming
Astronomer; cataloged over 10,000 stars
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
A Scottish-American astronomer and academic contributed to the field of astronomy while working at the Harvard College Observatory. Developed a system for classifying stars based on their spectral characteristics. Played a key role in the identification of variable stars and made significant contributions to the study of nebulae. Her work included creating the Henry Draper Catalogue, which documented stellar classifications.
Cataloged over 10,000 stars in the Henry Draper Catalogue
Developed a stellar classification system
Identified the first variable star in the Milky Way
Other People Born on May 15th
Katherine Anne Porter
American short story writer and novelist
Born
May 15th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1980 45 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent writer, produced significant works in literature, focusing on themes of human experience and social justice. Best recognized for short stories and novels that explore the complexities of life, reflecting on personal and collective struggles. Received accolades for literary contributions, including winning the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1966 for the novel 'Ship of Fools'. Her mastery of prose captures a range of emotions and insights, establishing a strong presence in American literature.
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Indian freedom fighter and activist
Born
May 15th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1931 94 years ago — 23 years old
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Astronomer and priest, observation of transits
Born
May 15th, 1720 305 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1792 233 years ago — 71 years old
An astronomer and priest contributed to the field of astronomy in the 18th century. Most recognized for conducting observations of the transit of Venus in 1769 from northern Siberia. Conducted extensive research and produced studies on various celestial phenomena. Operated a celestial observatory in Vienna, which fostered astronomical studies. His work facilitated a better understanding of the solar system and helped in measuring the distance of the sun.
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Author and activist for social justice
Born
May 15th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2006 19 years ago — 91 years old
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French military engineer and fortification expert
Born
May 15th, 1633 392 years ago
Died
March 30th, 1707 318 years ago — 73 years old
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Continue ReadingPierre Curie
French physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 15th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1906 119 years ago — 46 years old
A physicist and academic, contributed significantly to the study of radioactivity. Worked alongside Marie Curie in the early 20th century. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1903 for joint research on radiation phenomena. Made foundational contributions to piezoelectricity and magnetism, advancing understanding in these fields. His work laid the groundwork for future research in radioactivity and its applications.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 21st
Katherine Dunham
Dancer, choreographer, cultural anthropologist
Born
June 22nd, 1909 116 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2006 19 years ago — 96 years old
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Continue ReadingRicheza of Poland
Queen of Hungary
Born
September 22nd, 1013 1012 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1075 950 years ago — 61 years old
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Iranian wrestler, World Champion
Born
1956 70 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 58 years old
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French sculptor and painter of Nanas
Born
October 29th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2002 23 years ago — 71 years old
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Businessman, co-founder of Snapple
Born
1933 93 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 80 years old
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Born
December 29th, 1859 166 years ago
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