William Herschel
He discovered Uranus and its two moons, and pioneered the study of nebulae and star clusters.
Most quoted
"The heavens are now seen to resemble a luxuriant garden, which contains the greatest variety of productions, in different flourishing beds; and one advantage we may at least reap from it is, that we can, as it were, extend the range of our experience to an immense duration."
— from Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society, 1789
"I have looked further into space than ever human being did before me. I have observed stars of which the light, it is computed, must take two millions of years to reach the earth."
— from Letter to his sister Caroline Herschel, 1789
"The astronomer, who is acquainted with the immensity of the universe, will not easily be persuaded to believe that this little spot is the sole abode of life and intelligence."
— from Attributed saying
All quotes by William Herschel (406)
The more powerful the telescope, the more wonders it reveals.
The heavens are a school, where we learn humility and wonder.
The discovery of Uranus was a happy accident, but it opened up a new chapter in astronomy.
The universe is not limited by our imagination, but by the reach of our instruments.
The study of the stars teaches us the insignificance of man, and the grandeur of creation.
The more we observe, the more patterns we discern in the seemingly chaotic arrangement of the stars.
The heavens are a testament to the infinite power and wisdom of the Creator.
The nebulae are not all of the same nature; some are resolvable into stars, others are truly nebulous.
The universe is a continuous chain of cause and effect.
The pursuit of knowledge is an endless journey.
The heavens are a mirror, reflecting the vastness of eternity.
The more we understand the universe, the more we appreciate its beauty.
The construction of my large telescope has opened up new vistas in the heavens.
The heavens are a book written in the language of mathematics.
The universe is a symphony, and every star is a note.
The more we explore, the more we find that the universe is stranger and more wonderful than we imagined.
The heavens are a constant source of inspiration and awe.
The study of the stars is a journey into the infinite.
The universe is a living entity, constantly undergoing change and transformation.
The more we learn, the more we realize the limitations of our knowledge.
Contemporaries of William Herschel
Other Astronomys born within 50 years of William Herschel (1738–1822).