Apianus Collection

Diagram showing Geocentric system of universe, 1539. Artist: Petrus Apianus
Diagram showing Geocentric system of universe, 1539. Geocentric (earth-centred) system of universe showing Aristotles 4 elements surrounded by sphere of fixed stars, spheres of planets

Telling time at night using a nocturnal, 1539. The hour is obtained by measuring the angular position of the imaginary line joining the pointers in the constellation of the Plough to the Pole Star

Measuring the altitude of the Sun, 1539. From Cosmographia by Peter Apian. (Antwerp, 1539)

Reiner Gemma Frisius, Dutch astronomer, geographer, cartographer and mathematician, 1539. Gemma Frisius (1508-1555) holding an adjustable ring dial for determining the altitude of the Sun for

Using astrolabes to calculate the height of a steeple, 1539. Artist: Petrus Apianus
Using astrolabes to calculate the height of a steeple, 1539. From Cosmographia, Peter Apian, Antwerp, 1539

Title page of Quadrans Apiani by German mathematician and astronomer Peter Apian, 1532. The illustration shows his recently invented quadrant

Title page of Isagoge in Typum Cosmographicum seu Mappam Mundi by Peter Apian, 1523. The page is illustrated with a map, centred on the Mediterranean, showing only three continents, Europe

Peter Apian (1495-1552), German geographer, mathematician and astronomer. Apian established his reputation by issuing a world map in 1520, and the publication, in 1524

Pieter Bennewitz
PIETER BENNEWITZ (or Bienewitz : also known as Petrus APIANUS) German astronomer and geographer, professor at Ingolstadt Date: 1501 - 1552

Apianus, Peter von Bienewitz or Bennewitz (1501-1552). German humanist, known for his works in mathematics, astronomy and cartography. Astronomicum Caesareum

ASTRONOMER, 1533. An astronomer using an astronomical sextant to measure the altitude of the sun and the height of a building. Woodcut, German, from Petrus Aprianus Instrument-Buch, 1533

ASTRONOMERS, 1533. Astronomers with their instruments. Woodcut from Petrus Apianus Folium Populi, Ingolstadt, 1533

ASTRONOMER, 1533. An astronomer using an astronomical sextant to measure the altitude of the sun and the height of a building. Woodcut, German, from Petrus Apianus Instrument-Buch, 1533

ASTRONOMERS, 1533. Astronomers with their instruments. Woodcut from Petrus Apianus Folium Populi, Ingolstadt, Germany, 1533

A Ptolemaic, or pre-Copernican, conception of the universe, with the Earth at the center
PTOLEMAIC UNIVERSE, 1539. A Ptolemaic, or pre-Copernican, conception of the universe, with the Earth at the center. Woodcut from Cosmographia, by the German astornomer Petrus Apianus

Petrus Apianuss Pascals Triangle, 1527
Early Pascals Triangle. Appearing on the title page of Kauffmans Rechnung (Ingolstadt, 1527) by the German scholar Petrus Apianus

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"Exploring the Cosmos: The Legacy of Apianus" Step back in time to the 16th century and discover the remarkable contributions of Peter Apianus, a German geographer, mathematician, and astronomer. Through his intricate diagrams and innovative instruments, Apianus revolutionized our understanding of the universe. In 1539, Apianus unveiled his groundbreaking diagram showcasing the Geocentric system of the universe. This masterpiece depicted Earth as the center with celestial bodies orbiting around it—an influential concept that shaped astronomical thought for centuries to come. Not stopping there, it also delved into practical applications of astronomy. His nocturnal invention allowed people to tell time at night by observing stars—a significant advancement in navigation and timekeeping during those times. Furthermore, he developed techniques for measuring celestial objects' altitude. In collaboration with Reiner Gemma Frisius, a Dutch astronomer and cartographer, they refined methods to determine precise measurements using astrolabes—a testament to their dedication towards accuracy in scientific pursuits. Apianus's passion extended beyond his own works; he was an avid publisher too. Titles like "Quadrans Apiani" (1532) and "Isagoge in Typum Cosmographicum seu Mappam Mundi" (1523) showcased his commitment to sharing knowledge with fellow scholars. Pieter Bennewitz or Bennewitz von Astrolabium—alternative names used by Peter Apian—are synonymous with excellence in astronomy. His expertise attracted attention from astronomers worldwide who sought guidance on utilizing astronomical sextants effectively—an instrument crucial for measuring solar altitudes accurately. Intriguingly captured by artists such as Petrus Apianus himself or Pieter Bennewitz is an image depicting astronomers engrossed in their work alongside their trusty instruments—a visual representation of their unwavering dedication towards unraveling celestial mysteries. Peter Apianus's legacy lives on, inspiring generations of astronomers to explore the cosmos.