Details
RICCIOLI, Giambattista (1598-1671). Almagestum novum astronomiam veterem novamque complectens observationibus aliorum. Bologna: Heirs of V. Benatius, 1651.
Volume one (all published) in 2 volumes, 2o (364 x 235 mm). Engraved frontispiece by F. Curtus in each volume, engraved arms on dedication leaves, 2 fine engraved folding lunar maps by Domenico Fontana after Francesco Maria Grimaldi, numerous woodcut diagrams in text (occational light browning.) Contemporary vellum, spines ink lettered.
FIRST EDITION. One of the most important anti-Copernican works. "Riccioli's scientific career epitomized the conflict between the old astronomy and the new: As a Jesuit committed to church doctrine, Riccioli was among the most vehement opponents of Copernican and Galilean theory, but as astronomer, Riccioli recognized that Copernican theory provided the simplest and best mathematical model of the solar system" (Norman). "Riccioli designed a series of experiments by which he hoped to disprove Galileo's conclusions, but instead he ratified them.... He observed the topography of the moon, and, in concert with Grimaldi, introduced some of the nomenclature that is still used to describe lunar features" (DSB). This work was the first to state that no water existed on the moon. Houzeau & Lancaster 9223; Norman 1826. (2)
Volume one (all published) in 2 volumes, 2
FIRST EDITION. One of the most important anti-Copernican works. "Riccioli's scientific career epitomized the conflict between the old astronomy and the new: As a Jesuit committed to church doctrine, Riccioli was among the most vehement opponents of Copernican and Galilean theory, but as astronomer, Riccioli recognized that Copernican theory provided the simplest and best mathematical model of the solar system" (Norman). "Riccioli designed a series of experiments by which he hoped to disprove Galileo's conclusions, but instead he ratified them.... He observed the topography of the moon, and, in concert with Grimaldi, introduced some of the nomenclature that is still used to describe lunar features" (DSB). This work was the first to state that no water existed on the moon. Houzeau & Lancaster 9223; Norman 1826. (2)