Observing and Defining Comets
Overview
By the middle of the fifteenth century, improvements in the accuracy of astronomical observing instruments and the use of geometrical mathematics presaged a closer look at the strange fiery visitors known as comets and a new era in astronomy beyond dependence on a mix of Greek traditions and instrumental inaccuracy. The sixteenth century marked a landmark period of fortuitous comet appearances, affording a level of observation that pushed professional opinion toward the celestial origin of comets, rather than an ancient terrestrial one. Into the seventeenth century, the appearance of comets and accurate observational data prompted research into past comet records and comparisons which along with the inspiration of the elliptical orbital nature of the solar system and new mechanical theory brought the recognition that comets were celestial, had orbits, and were periodic.
Background
Comets, the transient astronomical phenomena that remain long enough to inspire awe, curiosity, and even fear had remained a puzzle for centuries. Although prior to the fifteenth century there had been diverse opinion on the phenomenon and the state of physical nature, the comprehensiveness of Aristotle's (384-322 B.C.) interpretation dominated the late Middle Ages,particularly in his interpretation of the celestial and terrestrial realms based on a logic of observation and the Greek tradition that all terrestrial matter was composed of four basic elements.
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