"I would rather be a good Christian than a good astronomer."

"I was measuring the heavens, now I must measure the shadows of the Earth. Though my soul was from the heavens, the shadow of my body lies here."

"For a long time I was restless. Now, however, behold how through my effort God is being celebrated in astronomy."

"The works of God are beautiful and great; let us, therefore, with all our might, strive to know them."

"I also ask you my friends not to condemn me entirely to the mill of mathematical calculations, and allow me time for philosophical speculations, my only pleasures."