Ole Rømer's Triduum Vol. I-III

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Discover the remarkable Triduum observations made by Danish astronomer Ole Rømer in October 1706, a pivotal moment in the history of astronomy. These precise measurements played a crucial role in advancing the study of stellar motions during the 18th century.

An in-depth exploration of Ole Rømer's groundbreaking astronomical work and instruments through his Triduum observations.

Ole Rømer (1644-1710) is best remembered for discovering the speed of light, but he was also a pioneer in developing astronomical instruments. Over three consecutive days and nights in October 1706, from his newly built observatory just west of Copenhagen, Rømer conducted a famous series of observations known as the 'Triduum observations'. Thanks to their exceptional accuracy, these observations became highly influential in early stellar motion studies throughout the 18th century.

Fully aware of their significance, Rømer ensured these observations would be preserved by entrusting a copy to his spiritual advisor on his deathbed. Later, his successor Peder Horrebow thoroughly analyzed the data and published Basis Astronomiæ in 1735, which also detailed Rømer’s innovative astronomical instruments. Unfortunately, most of Rømer’s other observations were destroyed in the Copenhagen Fire of 1728.

The three-volume set Ole Rømer’s Triduum Observations offers a comprehensive look at this legacy. Volume I covers Rømer’s life, the founding of his observatory, and provides a modern, detailed analysis of the Triduum data. It draws on letters and manuscripts to reveal Rømer’s mindset and offers insight into his instruments and timekeeping devices. Volume II presents a photographic reproduction of Basis Astronomiæ, accompanied by the first-ever English translation of the Latin text. Volume III features a photographic reproduction of the original 1710 Triduum manuscript, never before published in its authentic form.

The volumes are edited and translated by experts Claus Fabricius, an astronomer involved with the European Space Agency’s Gaia project; Niels Therkel Jørgensen, who completed his PhD on Peder Horrebow’s unpublished work; and Chr. Gorm Tortzen, a retired associate professor of classical languages. This authoritative publication is brought to you by the Society for Danish Language and Literature.

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