Francis Baily | |
|---|---|
.jpg) Royal Astronomical Society portrait | |
| Born | 28 April 1774 Newbury, Berkshire, England |
| Died | 30 August 1844 (aged 70) London, England |
| Resting place | St Mary's Church in Thatcham |
| Known for | Baily's beads President of the Royal Astronomical Society |
| Awards | Gold Medal of the Royal Astronomical Society (1827 & 1843) |
| Scientific career | |
| Fields | Astronomy |
Francis Baily (28 April 1774 – 30 August 1844) was an English astronomer. He is most famous for his observations of "Baily's beads" during a total eclipse of the Sun. Baily was also a major figure in the early history of the Royal Astronomical Society, as one of the founders and as the president four times.