Die Centralsonne

Dorpat: J C Schumann Witwe, 1846. First Edition.. Original printed wrappers.. Very good with a residual glue stain and portion of mount along spine where it was once bound with other items; feint marginal tide mark on edge.. 4to, [2], [3] - 47 pp.

Madler had an appointment at the observatory at Dorpat where he carried out his observations. He is best known for particpation in the authorship and publication of the lunar map. The work offered here is his primary effort in celestial dynamics and cosmology. Although his theory was ultimately shown to be incorrect his approach and methodology is considered to be of value (see his entry in NDB). He proffered the idea that the Pleiades may be regarded as the central group of stars composing the system of the Milky Way and that the bright star Alcyone was the central body about which they were all moving. This idea was later proven to be incorrect. An early and fascinating theory based on observational astronomy. The book was quickly reprinted (in a smaller format) in 1847 to meet the demand. See DSB entry and note on this title; NDB XV.