Percival Lowell

Percival Lawrence Lowell (March 13, 1855 – November 16, 1916) was an American astronomer, mathematician, and author who made substantial contributions to the study of planetary astronomy and founded one of the most important astronomical observatories in the United States. Born into the wealthy and intellectually distinguished Lowell family of Massachusetts, Percival pursued diverse interests before dedicating himself to astronomy. In 1894, he established the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona, positioning it on the high desert to minimize atmospheric distortion and maximize observational clarity. Lowell became most famous for his detailed observations and drawings of Mars, which he interpreted as evidence of an advanced civilization with canals and irrigation systems. While his 'canal' theory was ultimately proven incorrect by later astronomers, his work significantly advanced telescopic observation techniques and stimulated public interest in Mars and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Lowell also made important observations of Venus and other planets, and his mathematical calculations predicted the existence of a ninth planet, which was eventually discovered as Pluto in 1930 (posthumously named in part due to his work). His observatory remained operational and continues to conduct important astronomical research. Lowell was also a prolific author who wrote extensively about his astronomical observations and theories.