Gemma Frisius, Dutch Polymath

Gemma Frisius (December 9, 1508 - May 25, 1555), was a physician, mathematician, cartographer, philosopher, and instrument maker. He studied at the University in Leuven where received the degree of MD in 1536 and remained on the faculty for the rest of his life. While still a student, Frisius set up a workshop to produce globes and mathematical instruments. He became noted for the quality and accuracy of his instruments, which were praised by Tycho Brahe, among others. In 1533, he described for the first time the method of triangulation still used today in surveying. Twenty years later, he was the first to describe how an accurate clock could be used to determine longitude. He created or improved many instruments, including the cross-staff, the astrolabe and the astronomical rings. His students included Gerardus Mercator (who became his collaborator), Johannes Stadius, John Dee, Andreas Vesalius and Rembert Dodoens. He died in 1555 at the age of 46

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Cartographer Enhancement Frisius Gemma Mathematical Mathematician Mathematics Method Philosophy Polymath Triangulation

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