William Scott (astronomer and priest)

William Scott (fl. 1550-1564) was an English astronomer and priest known for his work on calendars and astronomical tables. Details of his early life and education are scarce, but records indicate he held a fellowship at Peterhouse, Cambridge, and was ordained a priest.

Scott is primarily remembered for his contributions to practical astronomy. He produced almanacs and astronomical tables, which were essential tools for navigation, agriculture, and religious observances during the 16th century. His work aided in the calculation of eclipses, planetary positions, and the timing of church festivals like Easter.

Although none of his works are definitively extant under his own name, he is credited by some sources with the creation of various tables and almanacs that circulated in manuscript form and later in printed collections, possibly under anonymous attribution or integrated into the work of other astronomers of the time. Identifying specific works as definitively authored by Scott is complicated by the common practice of revising and republishing astronomical tables with updates and modifications.

His dual role as both a priest and an astronomer reflects the integration of scientific and religious pursuits common during the Renaissance era. He likely saw his astronomical work as contributing to a deeper understanding of God's creation and aiding in the proper observance of religious practices tied to celestial events. Further research into manuscript collections from the period may shed more light on the specifics of his astronomical contributions.