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.
Read more about Maria Mitchell: Early Years, Comet Discovery, Career, Efforts, Legacy
Famous quotes containing the words maria and/or mitchell:
“Not since Moses has anyone seen a mountain so greatly.”
—Rainer Maria Rilke (1875–1926)
“Until you’ve lost your reputation, you never realize what a burden it was or what freedom really is.”
—Margaret Mitchell (1900–1949)