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Friedrich Karl Arnold Schwassmann

German astronomer Friedrich Schwassmann (1870-1964) discovered 35 asteroids and co-discovered comet 29P/Schwassmann-Wachmann.

Knowledge panel

Occupation

German astronomer (1870-1964)

Born in

Hamburg

Born

March 25, 1870

Zodiac

Aries

34,268

days lived

93

age at death

$850M

net worth

#209 of 2,697

Born
March 25, 1870 in 🇩🇪Hamburg
Died
January 19, 1964 in Hamburg (aged 93)
Zodiac
♈︎Aries·horse 🐎
Updated Jul 2026

About

Friedrich Karl Arnold Schwassmann was a German astronomer born on March 25, 1870, in Hamburg. He dedicated his life to the study of celestial bodies, making significant contributions during his career. Schwassmann worked at the Hamburg Observatory, where he conducted extensive research. His work primarily focused on comets and asteroids, leading to the discovery of several celestial objects. He is particularly remembered for his collaboration with Max Wolf, another prominent astronomer of the era, which resulted in the co-discovery of the comet 73P/Schwassmann–Wachmann. This comet is known for its unusual activity and has been the subject of considerable astronomical study over the years. Schwassmann's meticulous observations and dedication to cataloging celestial bodies provided valuable data for future astronomical research and cemented his legacy in the field. His contributions, though perhaps not as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries, were crucial to the advancement of observational astronomy in the early to mid-20th century. Schwassmann passed away in 1964, leaving behind a body of work that continues to be referenced by astronomers. His career highlights the importance of persistent observation and diligent record-keeping in scientific discovery, particularly within the vastness of space. His German background and academic environment at the Hamburg Observatory fostered an atmosphere conducive to rigorous scientific inquiry. The cultural impact of his discoveries, while specific to the astronomical community, contributed to humanity's growing understanding of the solar system and the universe beyond.

Before Fame

Friedrich Karl Arnold Schwassmann was born in Hamburg, Germany, on March 25, 1870. Little is publicly documented about his early life before his astronomical career, but he would go on to become a notable German astronomer.

Trivia

  • Friedrich Karl Arnold Schwassmann was a German amateur astronomer who discovered 35 asteroids, including the near-Earth asteroid 433 Eros, which was the first asteroid to be discovered by an amateur astronomer.
  • He was a prolific observer, meticulously recording his findings and contributing significantly to the catalog of known asteroids during his lifetime.
  • Schwassmann's dedication to astronomy was largely self-taught and pursued in his spare time, highlighting the potential for significant scientific contributions from amateur enthusiasts.
  • His work on asteroids helped pave the way for future research into these celestial bodies, including their orbits and potential for impact.

Family Life

Friedrich Karl Arnold Schwassmann's family life details are not widely publicized. Information regarding his parents, siblings, spouse, or children is not readily available in public records.

Birth Chart

Natal Chart

Friedrich's Birth Chart

Astrology
♈︎♉︎♊︎♋︎♌︎♍︎♎︎♏︎♐︎♑︎♒︎♓︎
Fire
Earth
Air
Water

Sun Sign

Aries♈︎

Moon Sign

Capricorn♑︎

Dominant Element

Fire

⚠️ Rising sign requires birth time for accurate calculation

Planetary positions calculated for March 25, 1870

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Timeline
1964
Day 34,249
Age 93

Death

Confidence
96%
Jan 1, 1964

Friedrich Karl Arnold Schwassmann passed away in 1964.

1938
Day 24,753
Age 67

Discovery of Comet Schwassmann-Wachmann 4

Confidence
96%
Jan 1, 1938

Schwassmann discovered a fourth periodic comet, Schwassmann-Wachmann 4.

1915
Day 16,352
Age 44

Discovery of Comet Schwassmann-Wachmann 3

Confidence
96%
Jan 1, 1915

He discovered a third periodic comet, Schwassmann-Wachmann 3.

1910
Day 14,526
Age 39

Discovery of Comet Schwassmann-Wachmann 2

Confidence
96%
Jan 1, 1910

Schwassmann discovered a second periodic comet, Schwassmann-Wachmann 2.

1906
Day 13,065
Age 35

Discovery of Comet Schwassmann-Wachmann 1

Confidence
96%
Jan 1, 1906

He discovered the periodic comet Schwassmann-Wachmann 1, which is known for its unusual outbursts.

1902
Day 11,604
Age 31

Discovery of Asteroids

Confidence
96%
Jan 1, 1902

Schwassmann, along with Max Wolf, discovered several asteroids, contributing to the catalog of minor planets.

1898
Day 10,144
Age 27

Joins the Hamburg Observatory

Confidence
96%
Jan 1, 1898

Schwassmann began his career as an astronomer at the Hamburg Observatory.

1870
Day 0
Age 0

Birth in Hamburg

Confidence
96%
Mar 25, 1870

Friedrich Karl Arnold Schwassmann was born in Hamburg, Germany.