Maria Mitchell Astronomer
- Gender: Female
- Citizenship: United States
- Born: Aug 1818
- Died: Jun 28, 1889
Maria Mitchell (August 1, 1818 - June 28, 1889) was an American astronomer, who in 1847, by using a telescope, discovered a comet which as a result became known as the "Miss Mitchell's Comet". She won a gold medal prize for her discovery which was presented to her by King Frederick VII of Denmark. The medal said “Not in vain do we watch the setting and rising of the stars”. Mitchell was the first American woman to work as a professional astronomer.
One of ten children, she was raised in the Quaker religion but later adopted Unitarianism.
I would as soon put a girl alone into a closet to meditate as give her only the society of her needle.
being alone
It is sad to see a woman sacrificing the ties of the affections even to do good.
sadness
I am just learning to notice the different colors of the stars, and already begin to have a new enjoyment.
learning
Every formula which expresses a law of nature is a hymn of praise to God.
nature
The world of learning is so broad, and the human soul is so limited in power!
learning
That knowledge which is popular is not scientific.
knowledge