Percival Lowell

Born

March 13, 1855

Died

November 12, 1916 (aged 61)

Known as

astronomer, mathematician, businessperson, writer, entrepreneur, diplomat

Percival Lowell was an American businessman, author, mathematician, and astronomer who fueled speculation that there were canals on Mars, and furthered theories of a ninth planet within the Solar System. He founded the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona, and formed the beginning of the effort that led to the discovery of Pluto 14 years after his death.

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