Discovery · 1705 CE
The Periodicity of Halley's Comet
History of Astronomy
Overview
Applying Newton's gravitation, Halley showed that comets recorded in 1531, 1607, and 1682 were one body on a 76-year orbit, and predicted its return in 1758.
Why it matters
The first demonstration that comets obey gravity and return on schedule — confirmed after Halley's death.
Credit
Objects & facilities
Bearing on theory
Knowledge connections
- Discovered byEdmond Halley
- Part ofThe Scientific Revolution
- Related toHalley's Comet
- ConfirmedUniversal Gravitation
Sources & references
The primary and reference sources this topic draws on.
- BritannicaEncyclopaedia Britannica
General reference for the history of astronomy, biographies, and cultural context.