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Glossary

Astronomer

An astronomer is a scientist who studies celestial objects such as stars, planets, and comets. They observe the sky to understand the laws that govern the universe.

Astronomy

The science that studies celestial objects and their movements. It helps us better understand the structure and origin of the cosmos.

Comet

A celestial body made of ice and dust, following an elliptical orbit around the Sun. Nicole-Reine Lepaute contributed to calculating the return of Halley’s Comet in 1759.

Ephemeris

An astronomical table that indicates day-by-day positions of planets, the Moon, and the Sun. Nicole-Reine Lepaute helped create these tables used by navigators and researchers.

Matilda Effect

A phenomenon describing the erasure or under-recognition of discoveries made by women scientists, often attributed to men.

Timeline

A visual representation of major steps of a topic over time. In this project, the timeline features several forgotten women in science.

Matilda

A name given to women scientists who were forgotten or erased from history, in reference to the Matilda Effect.

Scientific recognition

Being cited, rewarded, or known for one’s discoveries. Lepaute was long denied this recognition because she was a woman.

Science communication

Making science understandable for everyone. Nicole-Reine Lepaute contributed to this mission by linking astronomy, time calculation, and daily life through her work.