Aratus

Aratus was a Greek poet and astronomer born in Soli, Cilicia, around 315 BC. He is best known for his didactic poem Phaenomena, a hexameter work describing the stars, constellations, and weather patterns. This poem was based on earlier astronomical works, particularly those of Eudoxus of Cnidus. Phaenomena was highly influential and was translated into Latin by Cicero, Germanicus, and Avienus. It provided practical advice for sailors and farmers and was widely read for centuries.

Aratus was also a scholar and is said to have studied at Athens. His work demonstrated a keen interest in astronomy and the natural world. While Phaenomena is his most famous work, he is also believed to have written other poems and prose works, though these are now lost. His influence extended beyond literature into scientific observation and the popularization of astronomical knowledge. Aratus died around 240 BC.