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Chappe and the Transit of Venus, 1761
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Chappe and the Transit of Venus, 1761
Chappe and the Transit of Venus, 1761. Historical artwork of the French astronomer Jean-Baptiste Chappe d Auteroche (left, 1722-1769) in Tobolsk, Siberia, Russia, during his expedition to observe the transit of Venus on 6 June 1761. This scene depicts a large electrical storm. The local inhabitants thought Chappe was a magician, responsible for causing the bad weather with his observations. Transits by Venus across the Sun are rare, and Chappe travelled to Mexico to observe the following one in 1769, dying there of yellow fever. Artwork from the second volume (second period of 1888) of the French popular science weekly La Science Illustree
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Media ID 6337326
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1700s 1761 1888 18th Century Annual Volume Assistant Assistants Astronomer Ball Lightning Clouds Electrical Electricity Expedition Fear Fearful French Frightened June La Science Illustree Lightning Louis Figuier Magazine Meteorological Meteorology Observation Observations Observatory Observing Popular Science Researcher Russia Russian Scientist Sextant Siberia Siberian Storm Surname C Thirties Transit Of Venus Weather Weekly Cowering Mono Chrome Pauquet Superstitious Tobolsk
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This historical artwork captures the momentous expedition of French astronomer Jean-Baptiste Chappe d'Auteroche to Tobolsk, Siberia in 1761. The scene depicts a dramatic electrical storm raging above as Chappe observes the rare transit of Venus on June 6th. Inhabitants of the region were awestruck by the storm and believed Chappe to be a magician responsible for conjuring such tumultuous weather with his observations. Transits of Venus across the Sun are infrequent occurrences, prompting Chappe's arduous journey to Mexico in 1769 to witness another one. Tragically, he succumbed to yellow fever during this subsequent expedition. This artwork is from La Science Illustree, a popular science weekly published in France during the late 19th century. The image showcases an array of historical elements including equipment like sextants and assistants aiding in research and observation. The fear-stricken faces of both locals and observers highlight their superstitious beliefs surrounding natural phenomena like lightning storms. Chappe's courageous pursuit of scientific knowledge amidst treacherous conditions serves as a testament to his dedication as an astronomer. His contributions have left an indelible mark on history, inspiring future generations with his unwavering curiosity about celestial events. This monochrome illustration not only offers insight into early astronomical practices but also provides a glimpse into societal perceptions at that time. It stands as a reminder that even centuries ago, humans sought answers about our universe while grappling with fears rooted in superstition and limited understanding of meteorological phenomena.
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