Copernicus Unearthed

From Smithsonian Magazine, May 2006
Archaeologists believe they have found the remains of the 18th century astronomer who revolutionized our view of the universe

By Andrew Curry

Nicolaus Copernicus was the first to demonstrate that the earth orbited the sun, upsetting the prevailing notion that the earth was the center of the cosmos. But the Polish astronomer died in obscurity in 1543 and was buried in an unmarked grave. Five centuries later, archaeologists say they have located his long-sought resting place, under the marble floor tiles of a church. Read the full article.