DefendingKepler

         It can be said about Johannes Kepler that he was one of the most influential

astronomers to have ever lived. But to be an astronomer, would one not also have to

be a mathematician as well? Many of the theorems and equations Kepler have devised

deal with astronomy but they could not have been possible without mathematics.

          Let us have a look at the similarities and differences between being an astronomer

and a mathematician.The definition of astronomy is the scientific study of celestial bodies

and other matter beyond the earth’s atmosphere. In order to do this, an astronomer uses

scientific instruments such as satellites and telescopes to bring spacial objects in to closer

view. To make these instruments and to put the results of these instruments into effect,

one must use mathematical equations to fully understand their intentions and meanings.

          Kepler had a great understanding of the workings of gravity and inertia that had

to deal with celestial bodies. Because of this, Kepler teamed up with another great

scientist by the name of Tycho Brahe. Though this lasted only a short time, Kepler

and Brahe devised what is now known as Kepler’s Laws, which we still use to this day.

          Kepler’s Laws are the principles of planetary motion. These laws were Kepler’s

greatest mathematical and astronomical accomplishments. Johannes Kepler may have

been more in to the studies of astronomy than mathematics, but he was a mathematician

nonetheless.

          To understand or comprehend Kepler’s Laws one must have a great understanding

of physics and mathematics. In fact, before Kepler even began studying astronomy and

physics, he had to become a learned student in the course of mathematics. When he

accomplished this, only then could he even begin to study astronomy. In 1601, Kepler

was named Imperial Mathematician by Rudolph II - who was then the ruler of Germany.

          Kepler was both a great mathematician and a great astronomer. But for one to be

known for something, one must have done things before that special event that actually

made you famous. So in conclusion, Kepler was not an astronomer or a mathematician,

he was both and much more.