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James Challis

British astronomer (1803-1882) · Scientists · Died at 78

James Challis FRS was an English clergyman, physicist and astronomer. Plumian Professor of Astronomy and Experimental Philosophy and the director of the Cambridge Observatory, he investigated a wide range of physical phenomena though made few lasting contributions outside astronomy.

James Challis is read about 8.5 times a day, in 23 languages.

A typical day, 30 days to 22 June 2026

The middle day of the days counted, so one week of news cannot move it. The line under it is the last 60 days, one point a day.

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Awards

Fellow of the Royal Society
Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society

About this person

He is best remembered for his missed opportunity to discover the planet Neptune in 1846.

Category
Scientists
Type
Scientist
Status
Deceased
Dates
Lived 1803 to 1882 · aged 78