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Preface
Angelo Secchi is one of the most interesting figures among the scientists of the
nineteenth century. He is considered a pioneer of spectral classification of stars, a
founder of modern astrophysics, and an innovator in spectroscopic techniques.
Recent biographical studies have revealed many hidden aspects of his personality
and research activities, showing his creative experimental approach, open-minded
conceptual frame, and enthusiasm for the investigations.
Though Secchi became well-known as an astronomer and astrophysicist, his
background was in physics and he remained basically a physicist. He was interested
to explore all natural phenomena, looking for their connections, and, consequently,
extended his studies from astronomy and astrophysics to meteorology, geomagnetism, geophysics, etc. His contributions in these fields are less known, but extremely
interesting. They show how many innovations he introduced in these disciplines,
inventing methods and devices that in some cases are still in use or were prototypes
of modern machineries.
Secchi was convinced that science should be at the service of the public (he contributed to develop and apply fire safety devices, earthquake prevention measures,
water distribution systems, etc.) and involved the public in collecting data (a forerunner of what is today called “citizen science”). At the same time, he was a brilliant
communicator, disseminating scientific knowledge in all social classes and raising
interest and enthusiasm for the advancement of sciences and techniques.
Ultimately, Secchi is a model not only for scientists, but also for everyone who
cares about safeguarding and promoting the commonweal.
For this reason, on the occasion of the bicentenary of his birth, a national committee has been established and many initiatives has been organized to celebrate this
anniversary: an international congress, an international workshop, a virtual exhibition, a stage performance, and many public lectures and conferences.
Preface
Angelo Secchi is one of the most interesting figures among the scientists of the
nineteenth century. He is considered a pioneer of spectral classification of stars, a
founder of modern astrophysics, and an innovator in spectroscopic techniques.
Recent biographical studies have revealed many hidden aspects of his personality
and research activities, showing his creative experimental approach, open-minded
conceptual frame, and enthusiasm for the investigations.
Though Secchi became well-known as an astronomer and astrophysicist, his
background was in physics and he remained basically a physicist. He was interested
to explore all natural phenomena, looking for their connections, and, consequently,
extended his studies from astronomy and astrophysics to meteorology, geomagnetism, geophysics, etc. His contributions in these fields are less known, but extremely
interesting. They show how many innovations he introduced in these disciplines,
inventing methods and devices that in some cases are still in use or were prototypes
of modern machineries.
Secchi was convinced that science should be at the service of the public (he contributed to develop and apply fire safety devices, earthquake prevention measures,
water distribution systems, etc.) and involved the public in collecting data (a forerunner of what is today called “citizen science”). At the same time, he was a brilliant
communicator, disseminating scientific knowledge in all social classes and raising
interest and enthusiasm for the advancement of sciences and techniques.
Ultimately, Secchi is a model not only for scientists, but also for everyone who
cares about safeguarding and promoting the commonweal.
For this reason, on the occasion of the bicentenary of his birth, a national committee has been established and many initiatives has been organized to celebrate this
anniversary: an international congress, an international workshop, a virtual exhibition, a stage performance, and many public lectures and conferences.