John Kepler

A biography of German astronomer John Kepler (1571-1630) who lived just as the Scientific Revolution in Europe gained pace. He is best known for his astronomical career where he helped the Dutch astronomer Tycho Brahe catalogue and record observations and then use this data to formulate his laws of planetary motion. These laws would lay the crucial groundwork for Isaac Newton's theory of gravity. His astronomy also led him to produce a number of adjunct works in mathematics, optics, instrument building, natural philosophy and music. This book also covers his personal life from his humble family origins, his ill health and his niche religious beliefs which often set him apart from the status quo. As a result, he moved a number of times to various parts of Europe to find a favourable patron who could fund his work and family. The book has a number of colour plates of paintings of Kepler and the important people in his life. It covers his scientific ideas with diagrams and explanations and includes an index and glossary.