Nicolaus Copernicus

Biography

Born in Toruń. He studied at the University of Krakow, then in Italy (Bologna, Padua, Ferrara), where he studied law, medicine and astronomy. After returning, he worked as a canon and administrator in Frombork, simultaneously engaging in astronomical observations and mathematical calculations.

Key discoveries

• Heliocentric system — proposed a model in which the Earth and other planets revolve around a stationary Sun, explaining the diurnal and annual motions of celestial bodies.
• Explanation of retrograde motion of planets — showed that the apparent retrograde motion of planets is a consequence of the Earth's motion, not a real deceleration.
• Calendar reform — participated in the preparation of the Gregorian calendar reform.
• Copernicus' economic law — formulated the principle later known as Gresham's law: "bad money drives out good".