Includes "Commentariolus," Copernicus' hypotheses for heavenly motions; "Narratio Prima," popular introduction to Copernican theory; and "The Letter Against Werner," refutation of the views of a contemporary. Extensive editorial apparatus.

In 1973, on the 500th anniversary of Copernicus's birth, the Polish Academy of Sciences announced its intention to publish all of the astronomer's extant works, both in their original Latin and in modern translations.

"The "Commentariolus" is Copernicus's most lucid exposition of his system. The "Letter against Werner" throws light on development of Copernicus's thought. The "Narratio prima" is earliest printed presentation of the new astronomy.

Not only was the sun the centre of creation, but the entire practice of science had been revolutionised. This is the story of that astonishing transformation, told through the words of the astronomers and mathematicians at its heart.

Each of the prefaces and prologues in this volume is a complete work of literature unto itself, offering a unique insight to the thoughts of its author.