Percival Lowell
Type: Person
As of November 2026, Percival Lowell has been mentioned in one podcast episode on LEMMiNO (Mar 2022). In the episode "Bygone Visions of Cosmic Neighbors" on LEMMiNO, Percival Lowell is referenced as an expert whose interpretations of Mars and Venus exemplify how observational limits and cognitive biases can lead to misconceptions, such as the idea of Martian canals. H. G. Wells is noted to have recommended Lowell, indicating that Wells' own speculations about Mars were influenced by Lowell's imaginative ideas.
Percival Lowell was an American businessman, author, mathematician, and astronomer who fueled speculation that there were canals on Mars, and furthered theories of a ninth planet within the Solar System. He 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.
| Mentioned in | 1 episode on 1 podcast (as of November 2026) |
|---|---|
| First heard | Mar 2022 on LEMMiNO |
| Role | Astronomer and author |
| Affiliation | Lowell Observatory (founder) |
Who talks about Percival Lowell on podcasts?
Percival Lowell came up; the most recent mention was Mar 2022 on LEMMiNO.
- Bygone Visions of Cosmic Neighbors on LEMMiNO (Mar 2022)