John Herschel

Astronomy England 1792 – 1871 100 quotes

British astronomer who cataloged southern stars and pioneered celestial photography, quoted on the poetry of astronomy.

Quotes by John Herschel

In astronomy, every observation is a step towards the divine.

A Preliminary Discourse on the Study of Natural Philosophy 1830

The spectrum reveals the secrets of the stars.

Outlines of Astronomy 1849

Curiosity is the engine of progress.

A Preliminary Discourse on the Study of Natural Philosophy 1830

The Milky Way is a river of light across the heavens.

Cape Observations 1833

Science without religion is lame; religion without science is blind.

Essay on Natural Theology 1850

The double star systems teach us of cosmic companionship.

Outlines of Astronomy 1849

To measure is to know.

A Preliminary Discourse on the Study of Natural Philosophy 1830

The aurora borealis is nature's grand display.

Letter from South Africa 1831

In the face of the cosmos, humility is our greatest virtue.

Familiar Lectures on Scientific Subjects 1866

The planet Saturn with its rings is a jewel in the sky.

Outlines of Astronomy 1849

Experiment is the interpreter of nature.

A Preliminary Discourse on the Study of Natural Philosophy 1830

The joy of discovery is the true reward of the scientist.

A Preliminary Discourse on the Study of Natural Philosophy 1830

Light is the messenger from the stars.

Treatise on Light 1845

The universe is a grand book written in mathematical characters.

Essay on the Study of Mathematics 1827

Every failure in experiment is a step towards success.

A Preliminary Discourse on the Study of Natural Philosophy 1830

The southern skies hold mysteries untold to northern eyes.

Cape Observations 1833

Time spent in study is never wasted.

Advice to Students 1850

The harmony between science and faith is profound.

Familiar Lectures on Scientific Subjects 1866

A witty remark on the telescope: It brings the moon so close, one might think to touch it.

Letter to a Colleague 1825

On his deathbed: The stars call me home.

Last Words 1871