A groundbreaking archaeological discovery in Poland has unearthed a 500-year-old compass, potentially belonging to the famed astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. The artifact, a two-pronged metal device also known as a divider, was unearthed in a network of underground tunnels beneath the canonical gardens in Frombork, where Copernicus spent a significant portion of his life and died. The 16th-century find, the third of its kind discovered in Poland, offers a rare glimpse into Copernicus’s practical application of science.
The discovery was made by the Warmian Exploration Group, who used ground-penetrating radar (GPR) to locate the tunnels. The group secured permits for a single test excavation, which led to the uncovering of the compass. Archaeologists from Detekt Archaeological Services confirmed the authenticity of the artifact, dating it back to the 15th or 16th century.
The compass, a crucial tool for precise measurements in cartography, geometry, and astronomy, has sparked excitement among historians and scientists. It provides direct evidence of Copernicus’s scientific practices, shedding light on his methods and the influence he exerted on scientific advancements in Europe.
Copernicus is best known for his groundbreaking heliocentric model of the solar system, which placed the sun at the center, challenging the prevailing geocentric model that positioned Earth as the center. His theories revolutionized our understanding of the cosmos and paved the way for future astronomical discoveries.
The discovery of the compass has been met with enthusiasm by the Nicolaus Copernicus Museum, which now houses the artifact. The museum, which already possesses a similar compass, expressed excitement about the find, acknowledging its significance in illuminating the scientific methods and legacy of Copernicus. This remarkable discovery continues to captivate the scientific community and offer invaluable insights into the life and work of one of history’s most influential astronomers.
