Karl Ludwig Harding

Karl Ludwig Harding (29 September 1765 – 31 August 1834) was a German astronomer, who discovered Juno, the third asteroid of the main-belt in 1804.

Life and career Harding was born in Lauenburg. From 1786–1789, he was educated at the University of Göttingen, where he studied theology, mathematics, and physics. among them being the Helix Nebula or "the Eye of God". His main opus was the Atlas novus coelestis, the first star atlas without splendid but confusing mythological figures.

Honours and awards Harding was corresponding member of the Royal Academy of Sciences in Göttingen since 1803 and full member since 1806, corresponding member of the French Academy of Sciences since 1810, elected as member of the Royal Society in London in 1806, and associate member of the Royal Astronomical Society since 1821. From the government he was awarded the title "Hofrath" (Councillor of the court).

In 1804, he was awarded the Lalande Prize.

The lunar crater Harding and the asteroid 2003 Harding are named in his honor.

N. N.: Biographical notice of Professor Harding. Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, Vol. 3 (1835), S. 86 (Orbituary)