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Today in History: Jean-Louis Pons co-discovers record 37 comets

7/11/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On July 11, 1801, French astronomer Jean-Louis Pons co-discovered his first comet, marking the beginning of an extraordinary career. Over the next 26 years, Pons would discover a total of 37 comets, making him the most prolific visual comet discoverer in history, despite being self-taught and starting from humble beginnings.

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Story summary

On July 11, 1801, French astronomer Jean-Louis Pons co-discovered his first comet, marking the beginning of an extraordinary career. Over the next 26 years, Pons would discover a total of 37 comets, making him the most prolific visual comet discoverer in history, despite being self-taught and starting from humble beginnings.