C/1793 S2 (Messier)

Lore & Background

Charles Messier, a French astronomer born in 1730, discovered 13 comets during his career, including C/1793 S2 (Messier). His interest in astronomy was sparked by the great six-tailed comet of 1744 and an annular solar eclipse in 1748. Messier worked as an astronomer for the French Navy under Joseph Nicolas Delisle, keeping careful records of his observations. He was nicknamed the 'Ferret of Comets' by King Louis XV. Near the end of his life, Messier self-published a booklet connecting the great comet of 1769 to the birth of Napoleon, which some historians view as an ingratiation to gain attention and monetary support.

Reader's Guide

C/1793 S2 (Messier) is one of the 13 comets discovered by Charles Messier, whose primary occupation as a comet hunter led him to compile the Messier catalogue of 110 nebulae and star clusters. This catalogue was created to help observers distinguish between permanent and transient diffuse objects in the sky, as Messier continually encountered fixed objects that could be mistaken for comets. The comet itself is part of Messier's legacy as a prolific discoverer, though the article provides no further details about its orbit, brightness, or specific observations. Messier's cometary discoveries, including C/1793 S2, contributed to his reputation and his election to the Royal Society in 1764, the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences in 1769, and the French Academy of Sciences in 1770. The lunar crater Messier and asteroid 7359 Messier were named in his honor, reflecting his lasting impact on astronomy.

Did You Know?

• Charles Messier discovered 13 comets, including C/1793 S2 (Messier).
• Messier's interest in astronomy was stimulated by the great six-tailed comet of 1744.