Named in memory of the eminent astronomer Johannes Hevelius (1611–1687), brewer and city councillor of Danzig, now Gdansk. After studies at Leiden, London, Paris and Avignon he erected a private observatory and was an ardent observer. His Selenographia
(1647), which contains detailed lunar maps obtained with long refractors, made him well-known. Further important works include Cometographia, Machina coelestis (astrometric observations of stars and planets), Annus climactericus, the Star Atlas and the Star Catalogue based on measurements with Tychonic-type quadrants and sextants. Hevelius’ second wife, Catharina Elisabeth, was one of the first female astronomers. (M 24122) _ _.