Percival Lowell
American astronomer who promoted the theory that Mars had life - and a canal-building civilization. His other research led to the discovery of Pluto.
Biography
Percival Lawrence Lowell was a businessman, author, mathematician, and astronomer who fueled speculation that there were canals on Mars, founded the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona, and formed the beginning of the effort that led to the discovery of Pluto 14 years after his death. The choice of the name Pluto and its symbol were partly influenced by his initials PL.
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