José Joaquín de Ferrer facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
José Joaquín de Ferrer
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| Born | October 26, 1763 |
| Died | May 18, 1818 (aged 54) Bilbao, Spain
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| Scientific career | |
| Fields | Astronomy, cartography, navigation and mathematics |
José Joaquín de Ferrer y Cafranga (born October 26, 1763, in Pasaia, Spain – died May 18, 1818, in Bilbao, Spain) was a Spanish Basque astronomer. He was known for his work in studying the stars and planets. He also helped create maps and understand how to navigate ships.
Contents
Early Life and Adventures
José Joaquín de Ferrer was born in a town called Pasaia in Spain. When he was 17 years old, in 1779, he was on a ship called Nuestra Señora de la Asunción. This ship belonged to a company that traded goods.
Captured by the British
While at sea, near Cape St Vincent, his ship was captured by the British. José Joaquín became a prisoner. Luckily, his family helped him get free. After this adventure, he decided to focus on his studies.
A Growing Reputation
José Joaquín de Ferrer became a well-respected scientist. In 1801, he was chosen to be a member of the American Philosophical Society. This was a very important group of thinkers and scientists in America. Being a member showed that his work was recognized internationally.
Studying Solar Eclipses
Ferrer was very interested in solar eclipses. These are amazing events where the Moon passes in front of the Sun, blocking its light. He joined some of the first expeditions to study these eclipses.
Journeys to Observe Eclipses
In 1803, he traveled all the way to Cuba to observe a solar eclipse. A few years later, in 1806, he went to New York State in the United States. Both times, he successfully observed the eclipses.
Coining the Word "Corona"
During the solar eclipse in 1806, which he watched from Kinderhook, New York, he noticed something special. He saw a bright, glowing ring around the Sun during the total eclipse. He was the first to use the word "corona" to describe this beautiful ring. Today, we still use this word to talk about the Sun's outer atmosphere, which is visible during a total solar eclipse.
See also
In Spanish: José Joaquín Ferrer y Cafranga para niños
