Brahe

One night in 1572, Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe saw what he thought was a brilliant new star in the constellation Cassiopeia. (We now know he was observing a supernova.) In 1604, a second supernova was observed. These discoveries caused scientists to seriously question Ptolemy's theory that all stars were contained in an outermost sphere of the universe that never changed.

All of the instruments Tycho Brahe used to observe the sky were made in his own workshop. He also printed all of his books on his own presses.

Tycho Brahe was born in 1546 in Denmark.

Brahe had a brother who grew up to serve in the government. He also had a sister that became a scientist.

Tycho Brahe was a favorite of the king of Denmark, King Fredrik II. King Fredrik gave him an island to live on.

While living on his island, Brahe built a castle and an observatory.

Brahe made many observations of the stars.

Tycho Brahe was the nephew of Jorges Brahe, a sailor who gave his life in an effort to save the life of King Fredrik II of Denmark.

Tycho Brahe benefited greatly from King Fredrik's generous support.

Brahe received an island called Hven from the king.