Edmond Halley

by Alan H. Cook

Edmond Halley (1656-1742), MA, LLD, FRS, Capt. RN, Savilian Professor of Geometry and Astronomer Royal, stands pre-eminent among Oxford, English, and European scientists. Now more widely known for his prediction of the return of "his" comet, Halley discovered the proper motion of stars, made important studies of the moon's motion, and his investigations of the Earth's magnetic field and of tides were unrivalled for centuries. His prediction of the transit of Venus led to Cook's voyage to Tahiti. He was far more than a cloistered academic; his exploits as a naval captain led to perilous adventures, and he was also a notable servant of the State. Much material about his eventful career has come to light in recent years, making this a timely new account of the life, scientific interests, and continuing influence of this engaging and adventurous scholar.