Caroline Lucretia Herschel
(1750-1848), AstronomerSitter in 2 portraits
Despite childhood illnesses and lack of formal education, Caroline Herschel defied contemporary expectations by becoming a celebrated astronomer. Her achievements include preparing an index to Flamsteed's original star catalogue and the discovery of comets using a telescope built specially for her by her brother, William. She was awarded a Gold Medal by the Astronomical Society in 1828, the first woman to achieve such an honour.
by Joseph Brown, after George Müller
stipple engraving, 1840s
NPG D14946
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